Paradigm
In Disguises Lyrics

The lyrics of In Disguises's song "Paradigm" touch upon themes of self-reflection, conformity, and the struggle to find one's true identity in a world that often imposes limitations and expectations.

In the first verse, the singer observes their surroundings and questions the beliefs and convictions of those around them. The line "Do you talk in tongues, do you not believe?" suggests a metaphorical language barrier between people who hold different perspectives and ideologies. The singer then challenges the idea of trying to control or manipulate what is destined to be beyond our control. This reflects the futility of resisting the natural course of events or attempting to suppress one's true self. The line "Don't regret the words you've never said and never told" emphasizes the importance of speaking up and expressing oneself authentically without holding back.

The chorus introduces the concept of starting again, symbolizing a cycle of repetition and reinvention. The phrase "The world replaces" suggests that society constantly evolves, leaving individuals feeling compelled to adapt and change. This repeated process is described as relentless and falling behind, indicating a sense of pressure and the need to keep up with the shifting expectations and standards. The broken paradigm referred to here implies that the established norms and systems are flawed or outdated.

In the second verse, the lyrics explore the struggle of fitting into societal categories and the pressure to conform. The questions posed - "Do you fall into the category? Do you fit the mold, do you feel released?" - highlight the desire to find one's place and sense of belonging while also hinting at the idea of being liberated from societal expectations. The mention of dreams made of lies and denial reflects the tendency to create false narratives and masks to hide one's true self. The line "How real is your smile?" questions the authenticity of outward expressions and suggests the suppression of true emotions.

The final lines of the song touch upon the wasted potential that arises from succumbing to existential thoughts and excessive pride. The phrase "All your pride has grown existential" implies that excessive self-reflection and absorption in existential thoughts can hinder personal growth and prevent one from fulfilling their potential. The repetition of "All the more you waste your potential" emphasizes the importance of not getting lost in introspection but rather taking action and embracing one's true potential.

Overall, the lyrics of "Paradigm" delve into the complexities of self-discovery, societal expectations, and the struggle to break free from conventional norms and stereotypes in order to embrace one's authentic self.