"What I Know Is All Quicksand" by Giant Rooks is a song that explores themes of confinement, loss of freedom, and the struggle to understand one's own identity. The lyrics depict a situation where the narrator is trapped in a metaphorical cage without an escape plan. They express a sense of being imprisoned and losing their sanity. The walls of the cage are described as being made of glass, emphasizing the feeling of vulnerability and exposure. The mention of people taking pictures with their high-end phones suggests that the narrator's suffering may be exploited or observed for entertainment purposes. The song continues to delve into the narrator's internal struggles, with references to dark dreams and feeling overwhelmed by external pressures. They express confusion and a lack of understanding, using the metaphor of quicksand to illustrate their state of confusion and instability. Despite the chaos and confusion, the narrator seeks solace in their connection with someone else. Waking up next to this person brings a sense of stability and focus amidst the turmoil. They value this connection as a source of clarity and respite from their troubled mind. The line "I'm not a part of the scene" suggests that the narrator feels disconnected from societal expectations or norms. They don't conform to the standards placed upon them and may feel like an outsider. The chorus emphasizes the narrator's struggle to cope with their own thoughts and emotions. They name their dark dreams as a way of acknowledging them and attempting to tame them. This can be interpreted as an act of self-reflection and acceptance. The lyric "I hear a million voices laughing indiscreet" suggests that the narrator feels judged and mocked by society. They feel that their suffering is exploited and enjoyed by others, further heightening their sense of isolation. The song concludes with the repetition of the refrain "We close a deal in the ink-blue dawn, all is revealed now, we can't be harmed," which suggests a possible resolution or agreement. The narrator may be making peace with their circumstances and accepting that they don't need a reason to be alone. It implies a sense of liberation, where they no longer feel bound by societal expectations. Overall, "What I Know Is All Quicksand" explores the complexities of confinement, loss of identity, and the search for personal freedom in the face of external pressures.
