In the song "Ashes, Ashes" by Royal Canoe, the lyrics describe feelings of uncertainty, longing, and despair. The chorus speaks of feeling "dead in the daylight" and living a "half life," indicating a sense of being stuck or unfulfilled. The verses mention ashes, ashes, and references to the nursery rhyme "Ring around the Rosie," which is often associated with death and destruction. The lyrics also touch on themes of complacency and feeling replaceable, as the singer questions their own worth and purpose. The guest verse by Nnamdi Ogbonnaya adds to the sense of unease and confusion, with lines about coping with stress and feeling detached from reality. Overall, the song portrays a sense of longing for something more, a feeling of being trapped or lost in an uncertain world. The repeated references to ashes and dust suggest a theme of decay and impermanence, adding to the overall mood of the song. The music itself is a mix of electronic and alternative sounds, creating a haunting and atmospheric backdrop for the lyrics.
