Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: heavy-metal
Song Meaning of “Silence” by Stepfather Fred
Stepfather Fred’s song “Silence” speaks to the impact of traumatic experiences and the isolating effects of trauma. The lyrics acknowledge the fear and confusion associated with many post-traumatic responses, painting a picture of someone struggling to cope and make sense of the emotions and feelings that have been stirred up.
The narrator of this song feels like he is experiencing a living nightmare, not knowing why he feels the way he does in the midst of his troubles. Stepfather Fred conveys this confusion by repeating the phrase, “silence, like a drug in my veins”, indicating the overwhelming numbness of the experience, like being blank and void of any sense of understanding.
The overwhelming anxiety and depression that trauma can cause is also addressed, as the narrator struggles to keep their head above water and break away from the darkness. There’s a sense of powerlessness in the lyrics and desperation to be freed from the crippling pain. The lack of control one has over the past is highlighted in the line, “it will still remain somewhere”, suggesting that though the narrator might strive for freedom, the pain will still linger on.
The song ultimately communicates a sense of hope, as Stepfather Fred sings, “There’s a spark in the darkest night, I can see a light.” He encourages the listener to never give up on themselves, to keep searching for hope and to reach out for help. Despite the pain, in the end, silence can be overcome.