Introduction
Music has the power to convey complex emotions and thoughts, often serving as a medium for artists to express their deepest feelings and experiences. Sam Smith, known for their soulful and emotionally charged songs, is no stranger to using their music as a means of catharsis and self-expression. “Unholy,” one of the standout tracks from their discography, is a hauntingly beautiful song that has left fans and critics alike wondering about its deeper meaning. In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore the profound and enigmatic meaning behind Sam Smith’s “Unholy.”
Sam Smith: A Musical Soul-Bearer
Before delving into the intricacies of “Unholy,” it is crucial to understand the artist behind the song. Sam Smith has gained international acclaim for their emotionally charged ballads and deeply personal lyrics. Throughout their career, they have been unapologetically honest about their struggles with self-identity, relationships, and mental health. This honesty has not only endeared them to fans but has also made their music a source of solace for those experiencing similar challenges.
“Unholy” – A Departure from the Usual
Released as part of their 2020 album “Love Goes,” “Unholy” stands out as a departure from Sam Smith’s conventional sound. The song is characterized by its haunting melodies, eerie production, and lyrics that are filled with dark and introspective themes. While it may not fit the mold of their previous hits like “Stay with Me” or “Too Good at Goodbyes,” it is a testament to Sam Smith’s artistic evolution and willingness to experiment with new styles.
The Enigma of “Unholy” Lyrics
“Unholy” begins with a mesmerizing chorus that immediately sets the tone for the rest of the song:
“I swear, I swear
I’m trying to give you my all
‘Cause I’ve given you my all
But it’s gettin’ dark in my mind
So I turn to the light
In the red of the night
In the red of the night.”
These opening lines are cryptic yet compelling. They paint a picture of someone who is grappling with internal darkness and seeking solace in the light. The repeated use of “I swear” emphasizes the sincerity of the singer’s intent to give their all, but the darkness within threatens to overshadow their efforts.
The theme of duality is prevalent throughout the song. The contrasting imagery of darkness and light serves as a metaphor for the internal struggle within the singer’s psyche. It suggests that they are torn between two opposing forces, unable to find a sense of balance or peace.
The concept of “red of the night” is particularly intriguing. Red is often associated with passion, desire, and intense emotions. In the context of the song, it could symbolize the intensity of the singer’s inner turmoil, as well as their yearning for something more.
In the second verse, Sam Smith sings:
“I sin every day
So I don’t die ashamed
There’s a cross on the wall
With a girl in pain
I’ve been away for days
Thought I was lost, but now I’m found.”
Here, the lyrics take on a more religious undertone. The mention of sin and a cross on the wall alludes to themes of guilt, redemption, and the search for salvation. The reference to a girl in pain suggests empathy for the suffering of others, perhaps hinting at a desire to alleviate their own pain by helping others.
The line “I’ve been away for days, thought I was lost, but now I’m found” could be interpreted as a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. It reflects a sense of redemption and renewal, as if the singer has emerged from a period of darkness and confusion.
Breaking Down the Chorus
The chorus of “Unholy” provides a glimpse into the emotional turmoil that the singer is experiencing:
“I need to feel something holy
There’s a hole in me
And only love can fill this hole in me
I wanna feel something holy
But all that I touch turns so unholy
And my heart is heavy, can you see it, darling?”
In these lines, the singer expresses a deep longing to feel something holy and to fill the void within them. The idea of a “hole” in their being suggests an emptiness or a lack of fulfillment. This emptiness can only be filled by love, according to the lyrics.
However, there is a sense of despair and frustration in the singer’s words. They lament that everything they touch turns “unholy,” implying that their actions and choices have negative consequences. The heavy heart serves as a visible manifestation of their inner struggles, and they desperately seek validation and understanding from their partner, referred to as “darling.”
The chorus is a powerful representation of the human desire for connection and redemption, as well as the pain of feeling disconnected and tainted by past actions.
A Profound Exploration of Self-Identity
One of the central themes of “Unholy” is the exploration of self-identity and self-acceptance. Throughout the song, the singer grapples with their own sense of morality, their past mistakes, and their yearning for something greater. This internal struggle is a reflection of the broader human experience, where individuals often wrestle with questions of who they are and what their place is in the world.
The mention of sin, redemption, and the desire to feel “holy” underscores the idea that the singer is on a quest for self-discovery and self-improvement. They acknowledge their flaws and imperfections but are determined not to “die ashamed.” This introspection is a hallmark of Sam Smith’s music, as they have consistently used their art to confront their own vulnerabilities and share their journey with their audience.
The Symbolism of Light and Dark
The recurring imagery of light and dark in “Unholy” carries significant symbolism. Light often represents clarity, purity, and enlightenment, while darkness symbolizes obscurity, confusion, and despair. The singer’s yearning to “turn to the light” reflects a desire to find clarity and escape the darkness that plagues their mind.
The contrast between light and dark serves as a metaphor for the human condition, where individuals grapple with their own inner demons and strive to find meaning and purpose in a sometimes chaotic world. The song suggests that finding the light within oneself is a challenging and ongoing journey, but it is essential for personal growth and happiness.
Religious Imagery and Metaphors
The song’s use of religious imagery and metaphors adds layers of depth to its meaning. The mention of a cross on the wall and the desire to feel something “holy” evoke themes of spirituality and faith. The singer’s acknowledgment of their own sinfulness and the need for redemption aligns with the concept of seeking salvation in religious traditions.
However, it is important to note that the religious imagery in “Unholy” is not meant to be interpreted in a strictly religious sense. Instead, it serves as a poetic device to explore themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the human quest for meaning. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own struggles with morality and the search for something greater than themselves.
The Pain of Isolation and Disconnect
Another prominent theme in “Unholy” is the pain of isolation and emotional disconnect. The singer’s admission that “all that I touch turns so unholy” suggests a sense of alienation from others. It is as if they feel that their actions or presence have a negative impact on those around them, leading to a sense of guilt and self-blame.
The line “my heart is heavy, can you see it, darling?” highlights the singer’s desire for emotional support and understanding from their partner. They long for someone to see the burden they carry and provide solace. This theme of seeking connection and acceptance is a recurring motif in Sam Smith’s music, as they often explore the complexities of love and relationships.
Conclusion
“Unholy” by Sam Smith is a song that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of self-identity, morality, redemption, and the yearning for connection. Its enigmatic lyrics, filled with symbolism and religious imagery, invite listeners to embark on a journey of introspection and self-discovery.
Through haunting melodies and poignant lyrics, Sam Smith takes us on a profound exploration of the inner struggles that define the human experience. “Unholy” serves as a testament to the power of music to convey complex emotions and to provide a voice for those grappling with their own inner demons.
In the end, the song reminds us that the quest for self-acceptance and the search for something greater than ourselves are universal experiences, and it is through music that we can find solace and understanding in our shared humanity. Sam Smith’s “Unholy” is a testament to the enduring power of music to touch our souls and illuminate the darkest corners of our hearts.
Jason Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
