"Ana's Song (Open Fire)" by Hands Like Houses is a cover of the original song by Silverchair, released in 1999. The lyrics of the song revolve around the struggles of anorexia and the impact it has on both the person experiencing it (referred to as Ana) and their loved ones. The song starts with a plea for Ana to "Please die," which may seem harsh, but it represents the intensity of the emotions and desperation felt by those who long for the person suffering from anorexia to overcome their illness. The following lines express the contradictory feelings of love and pain brought about by Ana's presence. The sound of her laughter and sharpness of her words seem gentler and less threatening to the songwriter, juxtaposing the destructive nature of the illness. The chorus represents the songwriter's need and desire for Ana, but not in a romantic sense. It is a plea for her to understand the impact she has on their life and to change her destructive tendencies. The phrase "Open fire on the needs designed, On my knees for you" suggests a passionate plea for Ana to confront her inner struggles and seek help. The song acknowledges the destructive nature of anorexia, referring to it as a life-wrecker. There is also a mention of an "imagine pageant," indicating the distorted self-image that often accompanies anorexia. The line "Sandpaper tears corrode the film" portrays the emotional pain and inner turmoil Ana experiences. Overall, "Ana's Song (Open Fire)" aims to shed light on the realities of anorexia and its profound effect on both the person experiencing it and their loved ones. It calls for compassion, understanding, and a plea for the person suffering to seek help and overcome their illness.
