Song meaning of Up In Flames by Joviale

The lyrics of the song "Up In Flames" by Joviale explore the themes of cruelty, lies, dissatisfaction, and emotional detachment in relationships within a city that is metaphorically up in flames. The protagonist expresses how being cruel and hearing lies keep them feeling young and intoxicated, suggesting a sense of power and control in maintaining emotional distance. The line "Never happy with what you found" implies a constant search for something different, unable to find satisfaction in meaningful connections.

The chorus, "We were warned it'd never change, This city's up in flames, You can count on me to feel the same," suggests a resigned acceptance of the city's destructive nature and a lack of hope for change. The repetition of the phrase "Stuck in a frame, You owe me shame, You like to play" reveals a cycle of hurt and manipulation in the relationships depicted.

The lyrics further explore the idea of bravery and fear, questioning whether the protagonist truly understands what it feels like to be afraid. This may allude to a detachment from authentic emotions, using cruelty and lies as a defense mechanism to avoid vulnerability.

Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of emotional detachment, dissatisfaction, and a lack of genuine connection within relationships. The metaphor of the city being up in flames symbolizes a destructive cycle that the protagonist and those around them seem trapped within.