Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “Digging Shelters” by Neil Halstead
Digging Shelters by Neil Halstead is a melancholic ode to the realities of life. With astrally drifting guitars and gentle vocals that soar over the music, Halstead paints the picture of a desolate world, desperately longing for refuge.
The lyrics are a timeless reminder that sometimes we must take matters into our own hands and do what needs to be done. We must dig our own shelter—build our own safe havens, for moments of peace and solace. In his own words, Halstead sings: “You got to believe when all the walls come falling down, you have to trust in the workings of the Lord, you have to dig your own shelter when life’s too hard to bear.” Life can be cruel and hard; Halstead acknowledges that we can’t control our fate but we have the power to create our own safe spaces.
The emotionally-rich chorus that ends the song adds further depth to the message Halstead is trying to convey. He sings, “Your own shelter’s a flag on the hill, you’re raising it high, in morning light, in long nights and in hope.” The raising of one’s own flag not only symbolizes strength and courage, but it is also a reminder that we are powerful and capable of forging our own destinies.
Digging Shelters by Neil Halstead ultimately serves as a reminder to all of us that life sometimes requires us to take action and build our own safe havens. We must dig our own shelter—not only for moments of respite, but for moments of courage, strength, and hope.