The song "Illusion" by Carlie Hanson explores the theme of feeling lost and disillusioned in life. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist believed things would be different or better, but reality hasn't lived up to their expectations. The opening lines convey a sense of being lost and overwhelmed by the world. The mention of "scenes like magazines" reflects the idea that life can feel like a manufactured and idealized version, which only serves to pull the protagonist further into feelings of dissatisfaction and confusion. The chorus emphasizes the discrepancy between what the protagonist thought life would be like and what it actually feels like. The repetition of "This isn't what I thought it'd be like, Just an illusion doesn't sit right" suggests disappointment and a realization that their expectations were not met. The mention of red lights symbolizes obstacles and missed opportunities, further emphasizing the feeling of things slipping away. The bridge of the song hints at a desire to escape or let go of the disappointment and confusion. The protagonist feels unsure of their emotions and struggles to find meaning or purpose in their experiences. The second verse reinforces the theme of unfulfilled expectations and the confusion that arises from feeling lost. The mention of a tinted window and not knowing where they are highlights a lack of direction and clarity. The image of letting go of the wheel like a "basket case" demonstrates a sense of surrender and not knowing how to navigate through life. In the final chorus, the protagonist expresses their frustration and disillusionment with always being let down. They feel stagnant, staring at another blank wall, and are unsure of what to believe anymore. Overall, "Illusion" by Carlie Hanson is a song that captures the feelings of disappointment, confusion, and disillusionment that can arise when life doesn't meet one's expectations. It explores the struggles of feeling lost and trying to navigate through a world that feels like an illusion.
