The song "Desolate" by Hundredth reflects on the feelings of struggle, regret, and the fear of losing one's identity. The lyrics express a sense of dissatisfaction with the choices made in life and the constant battle to regain a sense of self. The opening lines, "What have I gained / By giving the world my everything? / It's never been such a struggle / To regress to what I was yesterday," depict a feeling of emptiness and confusion. The protagonist wonders if their efforts to please the world and conform to societal expectations have been worthwhile. As the song progresses, the protagonist acknowledges the distance they feel from their true self, lamenting, "But today, I seem so far away." They long for validation and recognition from the world, hoping that their song will be heard and their pain understood. "I've given too much away over these past few years / And this is ending today" shows a realization of having sacrificed too much and a determination to change. The pain in their eyes symbolizes the internal struggle and disappointment they feel for falling short of their own expectations. The plea for acceptance and reparation is evident in the lines, "Do you still see me as beautiful? / Carry me home, / Lighten my stagger." The protagonist desires to be seen as worthy and hopes for forgiveness or support during this challenging time. The repeated phrase "Refine me with fire" suggests a desire for growth and transformation, even if it means going through difficult experiences. The protagonist seeks refinement and change, hoping that undergoing hardships will ultimately lead to a better version of themselves. The closing lines, "I'll never find my place on Earth, / But I refuse to fade away," convey a sense of resilience and determination. Despite the struggles and uncertainties they face, the protagonist refuses to give up and disappear. They acknowledge that finding their true purpose may be elusive, but they remain steadfast in their pursuit of self-discovery and personal fulfillment. Overall, "Desolate" tells a story of a person grappling with their choices, searching for self-acceptance, and striving for inner growth amidst pain and regret.
