Purgatory
Snag Lyrics

In the lyrics to "Purgatory" by Snag, the singer questions when and how one learned to suppress the natural instinct to mourn and grieve for the loss of a friend or the inevitability of the end of life. The opening lines suggest a sense of desensitization or emotional numbness that has taken hold, hinting at a personal or collective experience of loss and suffering that has been deeply internalized. The repeated questioning tone highlights the profound confusion and disbelief regarding the ability to carry on without processing and acknowledging the weight of such heavy emotions.

As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into the disturbing imagery of bodies surrounding the singer, metaphorically symbolizing the burden of death and suffering that surrounds them. The overwhelming presence of these bodies, depicted as being piled "so deep," serves as a potent visual representation of the emotional and psychological toll of living in a state of perpetual mourning and despair. The juxtaposition of sleep and breathing as basic human functions in contrast to the surrounding grim reality emphasizes the profound disconnect between the inner turmoil experienced by the singer and the external world.

The contrast between the mundane acts of sleep and breathing and the presence of the surrounding bodies creates a stark and unsettling image, highlighting the inescapable nature of death and the weight of grief that pervades the singer's existence. The repeated questioning of "how can you sleep" and "how can you breathe" serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by individuals who have become accustomed to living in a state of perpetual mourning and loss, grappling with the heaviness of their emotions while trying to navigate the demands of daily life.

Overall, the lyrics to "Purgatory" by Snag delve into themes of grief, desensitization, and the pervasive presence of death and suffering. Through its haunting imagery and introspective questioning, the song captures the internal conflict and emotional turmoil experienced by the singer as they confront the harsh realities of mortality and the enduring impact of loss. The profound sense of disconnection and emotional weight conveyed in the lyrics serves as a powerful exploration of the complexities of grief and the struggle to find solace and acceptance in the face of overwhelming despair.