"Blowing Fire" by The Joy Formidable is a song that explores the themes of frustration, self-reflection, and longing for change. The lyrics suggest a feeling of being caught up in a cycle of destructive behavior or a toxic relationship. The song begins with the narrator expressing their exhaustion from constantly being in conflict or blowing fire. They reflect on their involvement in a situation that they did not fully understand or question. The mention of taking a walk in the dead of night and wishing it deep suggests a moment of contemplation and regret. The chorus expresses the disconnection and numbness felt by many individuals in a society where regret and love are common emotions. The line "A lot of them don't feel anything at all" suggests a sense of disillusionment or emotional detachment. As the song progresses, it highlights the narrator's growing realization that they have been investing their energy and emotions without any significant return. The lyrics emphasize their frustration and the feeling of getting nothing in return for their efforts. The second chorus introduces a shift in perspective, as the line "Now, what gives in? There's more of them" suggests that the narrator realizes others may be going through similar struggles. However, they also acknowledge that others might not experience the same nighttime dread or be able to empathize fully. The bridge alludes to the burden of carrying unexpressed emotions and feeling misunderstood. The mention of a wasted look, referring to their own reflection, suggests the regret and disappointment with their own choices. The final chorus introduces a sense of hope or a desire for change. The narrator admits that the situation has raced back to them, possibly implying that they have reached a breaking point. They express their yearning for the other person to understand their perspective and to acknowledge that not every river overflows, meaning that not every problem is insurmountable. The song concludes with the acknowledgment that others may share similar emotions and fears. The line "Turning hot or cold, we left the same" suggests a shared experience of emotional turmoil or conflict. The lyrics hint at a struggle with personal transformation and the fear of losing oneself in the process. Overall, "Blowing Fire" is a song that delves into the frustration and longing for change, while also exploring themes of emotional detachment and self-reflection.
