Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: ska
Song Meaning of “Tethered to the Wall” by Allister
“Tethered to the Wall” by Allister tells the story of someone who has been wronged and consequently is stuck in a pattern of unhealthy behavior that they can’t break free of. The protagonist is wedged between their past and the future they know they should grab onto, but can’t seem to get there. The tether that holds them to the wall is fear—the inability to make the choices that will move them forward and break out of the life they know, but don’t want.
The lyrics illustrate this struggle, as the person begins to understand the habits and the thought patterns that they can’t seem to break free from. They’ve grown used to this way of living, even if it’s hindering them. The protagonist knows that they need to find a way to get out, and the chorus serves as an anthem to breaking out of this and moving forward: “I’m tired of this tether to the wall/Gotta get a little bit farther/Climb a little bit higher/Something better’s gonna be waiting for me.”
The song offers a powerful message to anyone who feels tethered to their past mistakes and negative feelings—it’s not easy, but it is possible. Taking control of one’s life and breaking the bonds of the fear that hold us back is a powerful display of strength and courage, and “Tethered to the Wall” depicts this internal battle with clarity and insight.