Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: goth
Song Meaning of “By Candlelight & Mirrors” by Ava Inferi
“By Candlelight & Mirrors” by Ava Inferi is a beautiful, haunting piece about facing up to one’s inner self and embracing its dark secrets. The lyrics evoke a sense of a journey being undertaken, one that involves the fear of what lies within and the ultimate understanding of ourselves that can be realized through facing our demons.
The titular candles and mirrors reflect the idea of introspection, of looking deep within oneself, and shining a light on inner dark places. The opening lyrics of “I shed my light, of pain and fear, and I see my road is rising” allude to the notion of pushing through the darkness and inner pain to gain new understanding, as well as the potential danger such understanding entails. The candle and mirror provide a means of reflecting on the protagonist’s past, and of searching for the truth hidden within.
The song is about coming to terms with the dark aspects of the self and its relationships, and it speaks to the way we all at times feel out of control and of the courage it takes to become one’s most real, honest self. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest a new found courage and hope, as the figure in the song finds a way to love themselves and finally move forward.