Hell Above

Pierce The Veil's 'Hell Above' is a poignant exploration of emotional turmoil and the struggle to find solace in a world that feels desolate. The song's lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with the pain of isolation and the desire for connection, even when it seems futile. The opening lines set the stage for a narrative of internal conflict, where the protagonist is torn between the comfort of familiarity and the pain it brings. The imagery of running through glass and kerosene hearts suggests a willingness to endure pain for the sake of preserving something meaningful, such as one's identity or love.

The chorus, 'Cause this is a wasteland, my only retreat / With heaven above you, there's hell over me,' captures the essence of the song's theme: a sense of being trapped in a personal hell while yearning for a reprieve that seems just out of reach. The juxtaposition of 'heaven' and 'hell' implies a stark contrast between the protagonist's current state and the possibility of something better, highlighting the emotional highs and lows of their experience. The mention of 'wasteland' conveys a feeling of desolation and abandonment, reinforcing the song's atmosphere of despair.

The song also touches on themes of love and loss, as seen in the verses about a fleeting romantic encounter that ends in loneliness. The metaphor of a cherry stem tied with a tongue symbolizes a moment of intimacy that ultimately leads to more isolation. The repeated plea not to be allowed to 'jump' or 'fall' at the end of the song suggests a cry for help, a desire to be saved from one's own destructive impulses. Overall, 'Hell Above' is a raw and emotional depiction of the human condition, where the search for love and meaning often leads to a complex landscape of pain and hope.