"Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Silence" by Glassjaw is a song with introspective and abstract lyrics that can be interpreted in various ways. The song touches on themes of isolation, pain, spirituality, and the human condition. The lyrics describe a burning feeling and the presence of red and clear liquids, which could represent physical or emotional suffering. The reference to blessed are the sick suggests a search for meaning or redemption in the midst of this pain. The line "Children shiver in the river" creates a haunting image, possibly alluding to the vulnerability and helplessness of innocent individuals in the face of harsh realities. The question "Where is our god now?" reflects a sense of questioning faith or divine presence in difficult times, specifically mentioning El Segundo as a location. The repetition of the phrase "I'm wasting away" conveys a feeling of deterioration and loss, with the narrator finding time to pine and reflect on their own existence. The mention of sin and redemption suggests a struggle with personal morality or inner demons. The lyrics also touch on themes of victimhood and control, with references to beggars and choosers, and the juxtaposition of demons coming in and out of someone's life. The line "I'm the matador of the children's ward" could be a metaphor, symbolizing the narrator's role in both protecting and harming others. There are also mentions of red and bed sheets, which may represent both intimacy and self-destructive tendencies, possibly involving alcohol use ("bed sheets, boozers"). The lyrics continue with a sense of detachment and irony, as the narrator presents themselves as the protagonist ("I'm the head fan") and reflects on their own mortality through a bed pan reference. The mention of being mugged adds to a feeling of vulnerability and emptiness. The final verses suggest the narrator offering something to someone, possibly affection ("I've got this for you, It's under my finger nails. I brought this for you"), followed by the concept of shutting out the world and being alone, implying a desire for solitude or escape from pain. Overall, "Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Silence" lyrically explores themes of suffering, questioning, isolation, and the complexities of human emotions and experiences. The interpretation of the song may differ for each listener, and personal experiences and perspectives could influence its meaning.
