The Artist

Alesana's 'The Artist' is a haunting exploration of grief, madness, and the struggle to distinguish reality from illusion. The song opens with a chilling description of a woman with a 'glossy stare' that seems to freeze the protagonist's blood. This imagery sets the tone for a narrative steeped in horror and confusion. The protagonist is unable to accept the woman's death, insisting that she is still whispering to him, which suggests a deep denial and a possible descent into madness.

The lyrics continue to paint a picture of a man tormented by his own mind. The coldness of the woman's skin and the protagonist's reluctance to turn away from her body highlight his inability to let go. This is further emphasized by his sweaty hands failing to lock the door, symbolizing his lack of control over the situation and his own mental state. The repeated wish for his mind to stop and the fear of being pursued add layers of paranoia and anxiety, making the listener question what is real and what is imagined.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's grip on reality continues to slip. He questions his sanity, wondering if his mind is deceiving him. The metaphor of 'paint abandoning canvas' and the inability to start again from scratch reflect his sense of hopelessness and the unraveling of his world. The recurring theme of collapse, both mental and physical, underscores the protagonist's resignation to his fate. The final lines, where he recognizes a madman glaring at him, suggest a confrontation with his own fractured psyche, leaving the listener with a sense of unresolved tension and dread.