The song "Illuminator" by Underoath explores themes of isolation, confusion, and the struggle to find one's place in the world. The lyrics suggest a sense of being trapped or imprisoned in a room, filled with darkness despite the presence of light. The opening lines, "Awake, to the sound of emptiness/ Alone in a room that's filled with the darkest of light," describe the protagonist's solitude and the overwhelming feeling of emptiness surrounding them. They were told that there is nothing beyond their current situation, indicating a lack of hope or purpose. The repeated question, "How do I know what side I'm on?" reflects the confusion and uncertainty the protagonist feels about their identity and where they belong. This question can be interpreted in various ways, perhaps referring to inner conflict or trying to discern between right and wrong. The following lines, "Bred a captive with nothing but their thoughts engraved in my skin/ I don't belong here, but I can't find my exit," hint at a sense of being controlled or manipulated by external forces. The protagonist feels trapped and struggles to find a way out of their predicament. The chorus emphasizes the idea of being pursued or hunted down by others: "This is where they all come to hunt me down, hunt me down/ Where they come to hunt me down, they hunt me down." It suggests a constant threat or persecution that the protagonist faces, which further contributes to their feeling of isolation and vulnerability. The lyrics then shift to a more empowering tone, encouraging the protagonist to weigh their options and be brave in facing the world: "Weigh out the options/ Brave the new world/ I know what you're thinking/ Come on man, I swear you can do this." It highlights a moment of determination and self-belief, urging the protagonist to find the strength to break free from their confinement. The repetition in the later verses, "I tore out my naive eyes, so they locked me up/ Preying on the innocent," indicates a rebellion against naivety and a refusal to be taken advantage of. The protagonist's act of tearing out their eyes can symbolize a rejection of blind ignorance and an attempt to see the truth. Overall, "Illuminator" portrays a struggle for identity, a battle against oppressive forces, and a quest for freedom. The song explores themes of isolation and confusion while also emphasizing the power to break free and overcome the darkness.
