The song "In Framing" by The Hotelier explores themes of personal growth, internal struggles, and the breakdown of a relationship. The lyrics depict the narrator's observations and experiences with someone who is going through a difficult time. The first verse discusses how the person fell for the idea of starting anew, but soon realizes that their old ways no longer fit them. They feel abandoned and alone, leading them to retrace their steps and make changes. The second verse refers to the person's destructive behavior during New Year's, where they try to make their chaos external. The narrator recalls a period of time that they can barely remember, suggesting blackout episodes caused by substance abuse. The person's attempts at hindering their own progress are depicted as failed and futile. The narrator feels drained by the person's reliance on destructive habits and compares it to a form of vampirism. The chorus brings attention to the sirens cry, which can be seen as a symbolic representation of external turmoil or distress. The phrase "I am reflexive. I cry loudly" suggests that the narrator also experiences their own emotional turmoil and reacts to it in a similar way. The person in question puts the narrator's picture in a frame, which may signify an attempt to control or possess them. The phrase "left me strangling" suggests that this behavior is suffocating and harmful. The following verse portrays the person's emotional decline and an attempted escape from their circumstances. They question if their struggles are all part of growing up and try to break free by climbing out of a window. The mention of their face being cold as stone and their wrist showing the bone implies self-harm or a suicide attempt. This deeply affects the narrator, who feels helpless and tries to stay steady to protect the person. The person pretends to sleep, but the narrator hears them crying, highlighting their loneliness and pain. Overall, "In Framing" explores the complexities of personal struggles, substance abuse, and the strain it places on relationships. The song delves into themes of isolation, personal growth, and the emotional toll of witnessing someone going through a difficult time.
