The Contract

Twenty One Pilots' song "The Contract" delves into the themes of anxiety, paranoia, and the haunting nature of past promises. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person trapped in a cycle of fear and vigilance, constantly checking doors and windows, as if expecting an ominous presence, referred to as a "necromancer," to appear. This figure could symbolize the haunting memories or regrets that linger in the protagonist's mind, causing sleepless nights and a sense of unease.

The repetition of "I don't sleep much" and "keep myself up" highlights the protagonist's struggle with insomnia, possibly due to the weight of unfulfilled promises and contracts. These lines suggest a deep-seated anxiety, where the mind is unable to rest, constantly replaying past events and decisions. The mention of hallucinations further emphasizes the blurred line between reality and the protagonist's inner turmoil, where the mind conjures up images and scenarios that feel all too real.

The song also touches on the desire for change and escape, as seen in the lines "I wanna get out there, but I don't try." This reflects a common human experience of feeling trapped by one's own fears and doubts, unable to break free from the cycle of anxiety. The repeated references to promises and contracts suggest a sense of obligation or guilt, where the protagonist feels bound by past commitments, unable to move forward until they are resolved. Ultimately, "The Contract" captures the complex interplay between fear, memory, and the longing for liberation from one's own mind.