After the Storm

The Outfield's song 'After the Storm' delves into the emotional aftermath of life's challenges and the introspective journey that follows. The lyrics open with a series of 'open' metaphors—open hearts, open eyes, open scars—suggesting a raw vulnerability and a willingness to confront past wounds. This openness is juxtaposed with 'shallow lies' and 'sacrificed' sacred words, hinting at the disillusionment and betrayal that often accompany life's storms.

The chorus raises poignant questions about the nature of pain and learning. 'After the hurt has gone away, oh, will we feel the pain?' and 'After the storm begins to turn, oh, will we ever learn?' These lines reflect a universal human experience: the cyclical nature of suffering and the hope for growth and understanding. The repetition of 'open' in the verses underscores the importance of remaining receptive and reflective, even when faced with repeated tragedies and overlooked truths.

The song also touches on themes of helplessness and the search for hope. Lines like 'watch a child when it falls, helplessness' evoke a sense of vulnerability and the inevitability of life's hardships. Yet, there's a glimmer of hope in the lines 'It's never too late to say a prayer, it might be all we got to share.' This suggests that even in the darkest times, faith and connection can provide solace. The closing advice—'Don't confirm unless it's sure, don't pretend to know a cure, don't convince the world you're right, don't deny you've never lied'—serves as a reminder to approach life with humility and honesty, acknowledging our imperfections and uncertainties.