Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “Somnolence” by Arcana
Somnolence, by Arcana, touches on the delicate yet potent dynamics of sleep and dreaming. While it may appear to be about the idea of sleep as an escape from reality, the song also delves into the larger intertwined concepts of comfort, fear, and tranquility.
The song starts out with a somber melody that exudes a sense of sleepiness and despair; almost like a lullaby. The light, almost whispered, vocals convey loneliness and detachment from the world. The lyrics hint at a desire to find refuge in the dream world, seeking comfort from the seclusion of sleep and dreams.
The chorus of the song is more upbeat and uplifting, much like the ephemeral arrival of dreams, allowing the listener to experience a sense of freedom to roam and explore the exotic beauty that comes with the dreaming state. The lyrics further hint at being able to discover a truth and finding comfort in mystery. In other words, the act of dreaming may allow insight into one’s true self to be revealed.
The bridge of the song slows down again and returns to the somber and sleepy melody. It builds up to the end, with the refrain of the chorus playing in the background. Here, the vocals express a fear of going too far into the world of dreaming, and ultimately, a fear of never waking up again. Despite this fear, the narrator is entranced and seduced by the alluring voice of sleep, compelled by its promise of solace and serenity.
Ultimately, Somnolence by Arcana is a song about the quest for comfort and tranquility from the everyday realities of life. It speaks to the enticement of escaping into the dream world, exploring the unknown, and unlocking the power of the subconscious. In the end, the narrator is left with the difficult choice of either embracing sleep, or remaining vigilant in the waking world.