"Take a Breath" by Underoath is a song about facing the challenges and struggles of life head-on. The lyrics speak to the feeling of being trapped in one's own thoughts and emotions, and the desire to find a way out. The song opens with the narrator expressing patience and a willingness to figure things out and calm someone down. However, the other person sees things differently and becomes a burden or a "shadow" to the narrator. The chorus suggests that the person can fake anything, but their past holds them back and has a grip on their life. The lyrics then convey a sense of emptiness and the inability to fill the void inside. The lines "Take a breath if you need it, hold it in for a minute, can you feel me?" highlight the desire for connection and understanding. The narrator recognizes the wasted time and suffocating feeling within the relationship, wanting the other person to suffocate metaphorically, likely referring to the negative influence they have. The song continues to touch on the recurring feeling of being dragged down and the presence of something unpleasant during a certain time of year, which is a strong olfactory memory. The narrator refuses to give up this time and asks if anyone is listening, seeking support or validation. The bridge of the song speaks to feeling overwhelmed and neglected. The narrator pleads for someone to take notice and come forward, emphasizing their desire for a genuine connection. The final part talks about being pulled in, covered, and buried metaphorically. The narrator admits their obliviousness to their surroundings and expresses a feeling of hopelessness, suggesting a desire for escape or a way to feel numb. Overall, "Take a Breath" explores themes of frustration, longing for connection, and the struggle to overcome personal challenges. It speaks to the complexity of human emotions and the need for understanding and support.
