Silver
Waxahatchee Lyrics

The lyrics of Waxahatchee's song "Silver" delve into themes of self-reflection, transformation, and resilience. The opening lines, "I stare at myself, the whole world keeps turnin'," indicate a moment of introspection, where the singer is examining their own identity and place in the world. This self-contemplation is further emphasized by the image of going out in a storm while feeling the house burning, which could symbolize a personal crisis or a metaphorical destruction of one's familiar surroundings.

The subsequent lines explore the idea of change and the unsettling feeling that comes with it. The kiss on the lips, which usually represents intimacy and familiarity, starts to feel unfamiliar, suggesting a drifting apart or a loss of connection. The phrase "My skin all turns silver" captures the metaphorical transformation and decay taking place within the singer. This silver transformation may signify a metaphorical hardening, a protective layer that shields them from further emotional pain.

The chorus adds an intriguing layer to the interpretation of the song. It speaks of a classic story being smothered under formality, suggesting the suppression of genuine emotions and personal narratives in favor of conforming to societal expectations. The line "I'll portray the old shag carpet, you can walk all over me" suggests a willingness to be taken advantage of or used by others, possibly indicative of the singer's desire to please or maintain peace at the cost of their own self-worth.

In the final verse, the singer reflects on the possibility of shutting down emotionally, turning to stone, while the world around them continues to move forward. They mention going out in a storm, symbolizing a calculated risk or an act of stepping into the unknown, and a declaration that they will never return. This could metaphorically represent a defiant act of personal growth and leaving behind the proverbial storms of the past, choosing to move forward and embrace change.

Overall, "Silver" explores the complexities of self-identity, the challenges of transformation, and the tension between conformity and personal fulfillment. It suggests a struggle to maintain authenticity and resilience in a world that often demands conformity.