Backslider
Sedgewick Lyrics

The lyrics to Sedgewick's song "Backslider" delve into themes of self-reflection, transformation, and the duality of human nature. The opening lines, "You were – You were the first, to turn me outward, lost for the last time, in mirrored stranger’s eyes," suggest that the singer's perspective and understanding of themselves and the world shifted due to the influence of another person. This could imply that the relationship led to a departure from their usual introspection and self-awareness.

The following lines, "At the world's end - we gathered the rain, the beasts of earth unchained," paint a picture of a chaotic and apocalyptic scenario. It seems that the singer and their companions are trying to gather and harness a powerful force in an attempt to defy the constraints of their reality. The mention of "beasts of earth unchained" denotes a release from societal norms or restrictions, embracing a primal and untamed nature.

The repetition of the phrase "Oh my god, all my gods have come" emphasizes a spiritual or transformative experience. It suggests that the singer is facing a moment of revelation or enlightenment, where their understanding of the divine or higher powers has expanded exponentially. This realization might have some symbolic meaning, representing a newfound understanding of their own capabilities and potential.

The next paragraph delves into notions of inner struggle and the conflict between desires and morality. The lines "Hands hang toward the sun, burning and turning for no one, lost imaginings, a phantom or a king - which one comes to me?" portray a sense of confusion and indecisiveness. The singer seems torn between different versions of themselves, questioning if they will succumb to base impulses or rise to a higher level of self-actualization.

The mention of a "makeshift malady" and the burden felt in sleep suggest that the singer is weighed down by internal conflicts and struggles. The phrase "keep god in the machine" possibly alludes to the idea of maintaining a sense of spirituality or purpose amidst the mechanical and often soulless aspects of modern life. The lyrics convey a sense of unrest and dissatisfaction with the world that the singer once loved, with fear being portrayed as the ultimate driving force for humanity.

The final lines, "We will be born again in the star light… Oh my God, Oh my God is gone," can be interpreted as a hopeful note amidst the chaos. It suggests a belief in the cycle of rebirth and the potential for transformation. The mention of "star light" could symbolize a higher plane of existence or a cosmic connection, hinting at the possibility of finding solace and renewal in the vastness of the universe.

Overall, the lyrics of "Backslider" explore themes of personal transformation, spiritual awakening, and the inner conflicts that shape our journey through life. Sedgewick weaves together vivid imagery and thought-provoking metaphors to create a lyrical landscape that invites introspection and interpretation.