The song "Backbone" by Hollow Front delves into themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and breaking free from toxic relationships or circumstances. The lyrics express a sense of imperfection, acknowledging that both the narrator and the person they address are flawed. However, the narrator emphasizes their honesty and decency in telling the truth, contrasting it with feeling emotionally dead inside and seeing the world around them deteriorate. The narrator reveals that they have found a sense of peace within themselves, no longer lost but still wary of falling into despair again. They acknowledge the possibility of returning to a dark, negative state, expressing a fear of being sucked back into a metaphorical black hole they had previously escaped. There is a plea for someone to point out what is wrong with the picture of their life. Despite using all their strength to improve themselves, they feel overwhelmed and under immense pressure, causing them to feel mentally strained. The song then turns towards waking up from a terrifying dream, suggesting that the narrator is determined to overcome their struggles. They challenge the perception that the world is completely dark, realizing that it is not as bleak as it may seem. The narrator states that they will not apologize for being selfish, as they are now living their life for themselves. The lyric "I found my backbone, lost it when I was under your control" signifies the regaining of personal strength and assertiveness, suggesting that the narrator had been manipulated or controlled by someone else. This newfound clarity helps the narrator break free from the victim mentality and promises to walk away and disappear, ultimately embracing the idea of taking risks and living with nothing left to lose. The song highlights the fear of feeling stuck in time while life moves forward around them. The narrator urges listeners to recognize the transient nature of life and to make the most of the limited time they have been given. Through self-reflection, the narrator realizes that their darker thoughts and demons were not real, and they begin to reconnect with their emotions. They express a determination to break free from the grip of the person who controlled them and assert that they will never apologize for being selfish in their pursuit of happiness. The final verses emphasize the narrator's triumph in finding their backbone, no longer being controlled by others. They claim they will vanish without a goodbye, leaving behind a message that expresses their anger and defiance towards the person who used to have power over them. Overall, "Backbone" by Hollow Front is a powerful anthem of personal liberation, self-empowerment, and standing up against toxic influences in one's life. It encourages listeners to prioritize themselves, embrace change, and break free from the control of others.
