Atlas

Pommelien Thijs' song "Atlas" is a poignant exploration of the emotional burden one carries in a relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who feels the weight of the world on their shoulders, much like the mythological figure Atlas, who was condemned to hold up the sky. The imagery of "sand in my pockets and wind in my hair" suggests a journey, both physical and emotional, where the protagonist is trying to navigate the complexities of love and responsibility.

The song delves into the theme of unreciprocated effort and emotional labor. The protagonist is depicted as someone who gives too much, carrying the emotional weight of the relationship, while the other person seems indifferent or unaware of the sacrifices being made. The line "Sorry that I still carry you" reflects a sense of apology for continuing to bear this burden, even when the relationship seems one-sided. The metaphor of "selling my belongings, building houses of cardboard" symbolizes the sacrifices made in the hope of sustaining the relationship, even when it feels fragile and temporary.

Throughout the song, there's a sense of longing and complexity in the relationship. The protagonist acknowledges the challenges and the emotional toll it takes, yet there's an acceptance of the other person's complexity, as expressed in "God, you're complex, but I like that." This acceptance, despite the hardships, highlights the depth of their feelings and the struggle to let go. The repeated refrain "your world on my shoulders, never the other way around" underscores the imbalance and the enduring hope that things might change, even when the reality suggests otherwise.