The song "Ritual" by Ellie Goulding describes a sense of bravery and determination in the face of danger and fear. The lyrics symbolize running headfirst into a "blazing fire" and holding one's head up high, refusing to be brought down by the circumstances. The smoke and fear are acknowledged, but the singer allows their heart to subside, indicating a calmness and resolve. The mention of sin and its effect on the singer's skin suggests feelings of guilt or regret, while the looming presence in the air represents a sense of impending doom. There is a mysterious sound in the darkest woods, which creates a connection between the singer's fears and the environment. The chorus mentions a ritual that is felt and seen by those involved. It seems to signify a collective experience shared by the singer and the listener, representing the powerful emotions and intensity of their situation. The repetition of "you feel it" emphasizes the shared understanding between the singer and the listener. The lyrics also convey a sense of inevitability, as they mention moving into the devil’s shoes and feeling it is too late to be rescued. Despite this, there is a readiness to face the raging fire, showing a determination to confront whatever challenges lie ahead. Towards the end of the song, it becomes clear that the ritual ultimately leads to losing everything. The repetition of "we lose it all" emphasizes the potential consequences of engaging in this ritual. However, the repeated mention of being ready suggests a willingness to accept these consequences and go through with the experience. Overall, "Ritual" portrays a sense of bravery, defiance, and acceptance in the face of danger and loss. It conveys the idea of embracing challenges and facing the unknown head-on, even if it means sacrificing everything.
