Chvrches' poignant composition, "How Not To Drown," intricately weaves a narrative that intersects themes of self-preservation, disillusionment, and the formidable struggle against external pressures. The lyrics provide a profound examination of personal agency within the context of challenging circumstances. The protagonist, metaphorically chronicling their experiences in the form of a book, confronts the arduous task of maintaining consciousness amidst the suffocating weight of societal expectations and deceit.
The opening lines, "I'm writing a book on how to stay conscious when you drown," serve as a compelling prelude to a metaphorical expedition through the complexities of sustaining clarity and self-awareness amid overwhelming situations. The metaphorical drowning becomes a potent symbol, signifying the overwhelming nature of external pressures and the imperative for resilience to navigate such adversities.
The lyrical narrative takes a poignant turn with the lines, "You promised the world and brought me it hanging from a string / Stuck in my mouth, into my throat, told me to sing." Here, the promise of the world transforms into a burdensome reality, almost forcibly imposed upon the protagonist. The vivid imagery of being instructed to sing underscores the performative aspect of conformity to societal expectations, emphasizing the constricting nature of these obligations.
A subsequent revelation unfolds with the declaration, "That was the first time I knew you can't kill the king / And those who kiss the ring." This introduces a theme of disillusionment and an awakening to the inherent hazards of blindly adhering to authority. The symbolism of the king and the ring serves as a metaphor for the corrosive nature of power and the individuals who ruthlessly seek to perpetuate it at any cost.
The chorus further amplifies the struggle against external pressures with the lines, "Tell me how / It's better when the sun goes down / We will never escape this town." The perpetual nature of the struggle and the palpable sense of entrapment within the confines of societal expectations add layers of thematic complexity to the song. The acknowledgment of fearlessness when caught and subsequent growth underscore the resilience and personal development integral to this introspective journey.
The latter portion of the song introduces a contemplative reflection on the aftermath, featuring the lines, "I'm writing a chapter on what to do after they dig you up / On what to do after you grew to hate what you used to love." This segment delves into the consequences of succumbing to external pressures and the repercussions of compromising one's authentic self. The recognition that external forces were "out for blood" emphasizes the ruthless nature of societal expectations.
The culminating lines, "You can take it now," mark a symbolic surrender of a metaphorical crown, indicative of a rejection of imposed expectations and a resolute determination to reclaim autonomy. The repetition of "Watch as they pull me down" in the final verses conveys an inevitable sense of adversity, acknowledging the challenges faced while emphasizing the enduring resilience to endure and persevere.
In its entirety, "How Not To Drown" by Chvrches stands as a poetic and metaphorical exploration of personal agency, resilience, and the toll of external pressures. The composition adeptly navigates the intricate landscape of maintaining one's identity in the face of societal expectations, leaving listeners with a profound reflection on the delicate equilibrium between conformity and self-preservation.
