Dance In The Dark

Au/Ra's song "Dance In The Dark" delves into the universal experience of fear and the struggle of growing up. The opening lines, "Shock, shock, horror, horror / If you really thought that / Growing up would be easy," set the stage for a narrative that acknowledges the inevitable challenges and emotional turmoil that come with maturity. The repetition of "drama, drama" emphasizes the overwhelming nature of these experiences, which can make one want to retreat and hide away from the world.

The chorus, "Everybody's scared / So dance in the dark," serves as a powerful mantra. It suggests that fear is a common human experience and encourages listeners to confront their fears rather than avoid them. The idea of dancing in the dark symbolizes embracing the unknown and finding a way to coexist with one's fears. By turning fear into an art form, Au/Ra proposes a transformative approach to dealing with anxiety and uncertainty, making it a part of one's life rather than something to be shunned.

The song also touches on the theme of secrecy and internal struggle. Lines like "You're hurting, hurting / Closing the curtains / Wanna keep it a secret" highlight the tendency to hide one's pain. However, the repeated reassurance that "It's okay" serves as a comforting reminder that vulnerability is a shared human trait. The act of "dancing with the dark" becomes a metaphor for accepting and even celebrating one's fears and insecurities, transforming them into a source of strength and creativity.