Sanctify

Years & Years' song 'Sanctify' delves into the complex interplay between love, pain, and self-acceptance. The lyrics are imbued with religious imagery, using words like 'sanctify,' 'confession,' and 'redemption' to frame a narrative that explores the sanctity of love and the pain that often accompanies it. The act of sanctification, traditionally a religious rite of making something holy, is here applied to the body and love, suggesting that the physical and emotional experiences of love can be both purifying and redemptive.

The song speaks to the struggles of identity and acceptance, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Lines like 'You don't have to be straight with me' and 'I'm a man like you' highlight the theme of understanding and empathy. The singer offers a safe space for the listener to reveal their true self, free from judgment. This is further emphasized by the repeated assurance, 'I won't be ashamed,' which serves as a powerful declaration of self-acceptance and pride.

The recurring motif of pain in the lyrics, such as 'Sanctify my body with pain' and 'Walk through the fire with you,' underscores the idea that love and self-discovery often come with their own set of challenges and suffering. However, this pain is not portrayed as something to be feared but rather as a necessary part of the journey towards self-acceptance and love. The song ultimately suggests that through this process of sanctification—embracing both the pain and the love—one can find redemption and a deeper understanding of oneself.