Darkness Fades

Sharon Van Etten's song 'Darkness Fades' is a poignant exploration of emotional turmoil and the search for solace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with feelings of isolation and longing. The opening lines, 'Rain, sleep tonight / Sunrise, hold hands all night,' set a melancholic yet hopeful tone, suggesting a desire for comfort and connection amidst the darkness. This duality of emotions is a recurring theme throughout the song, reflecting the complexity of human experiences.

The lyrics delve into the passage of time and the impact of distance on relationships. Phrases like 'It's been a while since I held you close / Been a while since we’ve touched' highlight the pain of separation and the yearning for physical and emotional closeness. The imagery of 'writing on the dust' and 'hearing stars fall' evokes a sense of desolation and the passage of time, as if the protagonist is trying to hold onto fleeting moments and memories. The repeated question, 'Keeping what at bay?' suggests an internal struggle to fend off negative emotions or memories.

As the song progresses, there is a shift towards a more hopeful outlook. The lines 'The nights are now / Better stay, light / I'm looking for a way / Darkness fades' indicate a gradual emergence from the darkness. This transition symbolizes the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of finding light and hope even in the darkest times. Van Etten's evocative lyrics and haunting melody create a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity and finding peace within oneself.