Redecorate

Twenty One Pilots' song 'Redecorate' delves into the profound and often overlooked aspects of personal legacy and the impact of one's life on others after passing away. The lyrics present a narrative of individuals contemplating the remnants of their existence and how it will be perceived by those they leave behind. The song's title, 'Redecorate,' serves as a metaphor for the decisions loved ones must make regarding the physical and emotional remnants left by someone who has died.

The song opens with a reflection on life, likening it to a series of snapshots that reveal a person's history. The protagonist is concerned with how they will be remembered and the burden their memory might place on their loved ones. The repeated chorus, 'I don't want to go like this, at least let me clean my room,' suggests a desire for control over one's final image and the wish to spare others from the pain of sorting through the remnants of a life once lived. The act of cleaning one's room before leaving symbolizes the need to organize and make sense of one's life, to present a curated version of oneself to the world.

The song also touches on themes of regret and the desire for redemption. The female character mentioned in the song is haunted by her past mistakes and uses decoration as a way to cover up her pain. The male character feels trapped by his circumstances and struggles with substance abuse, hinting at the complex reasons why people might wish to 'redecorate' their lives. Ultimately, 'Redecorate' is a poignant exploration of the human desire to be remembered fondly and the fear of leaving behind a mess for others to clean up.