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The Meaning Behind The Song: Open Letter by The Amity Affliction

Open Letter, the fourth song added to The Amity Affliction’s third album, Chasing Ghosts, is a powerful and inspirational track that addresses the topic of suicide. The song’s lyrics convey a message of hope, resilience, and the importance of reaching out to others during difficult times.

As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, Open Letter resonates deeply with me. It serves as a reminder that there is beauty and passion to be found in life, even in the darkest of moments. The lyrics speak directly to those who may feel lost or hopeless, offering a lifeline of support and understanding.

The Lyrics

This is my open letter, oh
This is something to remember
I won’t be buried before my time, my time
I’m not searching for forever, I’ve got my eyes opened wide

In the opening lines of the song, lead vocalist Joel Birch sets the tone for the message that follows. He rejects the idea of succumbing to despair and instead asserts his determination to live fully in the present moment.

I’ve been searching under rubble from your past
Just looking for a reason to make your life last
No need to look skyward for you to find hope
No need for redemption to be saved from the rope
(Fuck, no!)

These lines address the weight of past traumas and the search for meaning. Birch emphasizes that hope can be found within ourselves and in the relationships we cultivate with others. The line “No need for redemption to be saved from the rope” speaks directly to the struggle against self-destructive thoughts and urges.

I’m not searching the sky for a reason to live
‘Cause I found beauty right here and the passion to give
So let me give you my heart, let me give you my tears
Let me give you my life, let me give you my fears

Here, Ahren Stringer takes over the vocals and delivers a powerful chorus. He rejects the notion of searching for external validation or purpose, declaring that he has found beauty and passion in the here and now. The lines “Let me give you my heart, let me give you my tears, let me give you my life, let me give you my fears” express a willingness to share one’s vulnerabilities and struggles with another person, fostering connection and understanding.

This is your open letter, something to remember
We can still keep on fighting even though life is not forever

Birch reassumes the vocals in the second verse, addressing the listener directly and reminding them that even though life is finite, there is still value in continuing to fight against adversity. This line emphasizes the importance of resilience and the pursuit of happiness, no matter how fleeting or impermanent it may be.

This is my open letter
This is something to remember
This is my open letter
I’m not searching for forever

In the breakdown section of the song, Birch repeats the phrase “This is my open letter,” further solidifying the message of the song. He reiterates his refusal to dwell on the concept of eternity, instead opting to focus on the present moment and the power of human connection.

I’m not searching the sky for a reason to live
‘Cause I found beauty right here and the passion to give
So let me give you my heart, let me give you my tears
Let me give you my life, let me give you my fears

Stringer’s chorus repeats once again, emphasizing the central themes of discovering purpose and finding solace in the present.

Personal Connection

Open Letter holds a special place in my heart, as it has provided me with strength and hope during my own struggles with mental health. The lyrics serve as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is beauty and meaning to be found in life. The song’s message of reaching out and sharing our experiences with others is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles.

As someone who has battled with feelings of hopelessness and despair, Open Letter has been a source of inspiration and empowerment. It encourages me to keep fighting, to find solace in the present moment, and to reach out to others for support.

Conclusion

Open Letter by The Amity Affliction is a powerful song that addresses the topic of suicide with a message of hope and resilience. Its lyrics convey the importance of finding beauty and passion in life, even during our darkest moments. The song serves as a reminder to reach out to others and share our experiences, fostering connection and understanding. Personally, it has provided me with strength and inspiration during difficult times, reminding me to keep fighting and seek support.

About The Song

TitleArtistWriter/ComposerAlbumRelease DateGenreProducer
Open LetterThe Amity AfflictionJoel BirchChasing GhostsSeptember 7, 2012Rock / Melodic Hardcore / Post-Hardcore / MetalcoreMichael “Elvis” Baskette

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