The song "Ring The Bells" by James has a deeper meaning and tells a story of awakening, self-discovery, and breaking free from the constraints of society and personal ambitions. The lyrics start with the phrase "Ring, ring the bells, Wake the town, everyone is sleeping." This can be interpreted as a call to action, urging people to wake up from their metaphorical slumber and become aware of what is happening around them. The protagonist is shouting at the crowd, trying to awaken them from their passive state of being. The lyrics go on to express a sense of frustration and a desire to break free from the constraints of personal ambition. The lines "I can't see a thing through my ambition" suggest that the protagonist has become so focused on achieving their goals that they have lost sight of what truly matters. They no longer feel a sense of spirituality or connection with a higher power ("I no longer feel my God is watching over me"). The chorus emphasizes the need to communicate the realization that everyone has been lost in their own dreams. It expresses the belief that this is not the end, but rather a new beginning. The protagonist wants to share this newfound awareness with the world. The next verse uses the metaphor of breaking a code and seeing through walls and floors to emphasize the importance of being aware and perceptive. By breaking through these barriers, the protagonist symbolically enters a state of being that is deeper than sleep, representing a heightened level of consciousness and understanding. The chorus is repeated, echoing the message of the need to stay awake and aware of what is happening. Once again, the protagonist feels a disconnect from their previous spiritual beliefs ("I no longer feel my God is watching over me"). The final verse portrays a transformation and empowerment that comes from overcoming challenges and obstacles. The lines "When you let me fall, grew my own wings, Now I'm as tall as the sky" suggest that the protagonist has gained resilience and strength from their experiences. They have gone from feeling limited to reaching new heights and possibilities. The lyrics continue with metaphors of adapting and growing, such as growing gills and fins to survive in water and becoming as deep as the sea. This represents the protagonist's ability to navigate difficult situations and dive deep into their own emotions and understanding. The closing lines, "When you let me die, my spirit's free, There's nothing challenging me," convey a sense of liberation and freedom from the constraints that held the protagonist down. They no longer feel hindered or restricted, and their spirit is unburdened. Overall, "Ring The Bells" is a song that encourages individuals to wake up from their own dreams and be aware of the world around them. It emphasizes the need to break free from personal ambitions, reconnect with spirituality, and embrace a new beginning of self-discovery and growth.
