Fantasmi Lyrics – Tony Boy

Fantasmi Lyrics Meaning

[Intro]
This brief, wordless intro sets a reflective tone, almost like a deep sigh before the introspection begins.

[Ritornello]
In this chorus, Tony Boy describes how he tries to clear his mind of the “ghosts” of anxiety and stress, almost as if cleansing his space. The smoke represents a momentary escape or relief, while the dancing shadow symbolizes the weight he feels—his anxieties are like a monkey on his back, a burden he can’t quite shake. This imagery powerfully captures the haunting nature of his worries, which have become a part of him.

[Strofa 1]
Here, Tony Boy reflects on a complicated relationship, where he feels both loyalty and tension. Leaving his phone off is a small act of rebellion and escape, a way to shut out the noise. He shares a sense of shared trauma and insecurities with this person, suggesting they’ve grown up together, burdened by emotional struggles. He distances himself, admitting he can no longer be a role model, and feels a disconnect even in familiar settings, symbolized by “being absent” in class.

[Pre-Ritornello]
In this section, Tony describes an internal “chant” or repetitive thought that reflects his ongoing struggles. The pain he feels from someone else’s problems affects him deeply, as though he’s carrying the weight of their troubles along with his own. He questions his self-worth, admitting that while people may ask for his photos, he doesn’t feel important. His uncertainty about the future, paired with his low self-esteem, creates a cycle of self-doubt. This reflection brings a sense of emotional isolation, even when others reach out.

[Ritornello]
The chorus repeats the theme of trying to escape his thoughts and anxieties. He’s using smoke as a means to “disinfect” his space from these mental burdens, creating a visual of watching shadows dance on the wall, reminding him of his struggles. It’s a haunting, repetitive scene that mirrors the constant pressure he feels.

[Strofa 2]
Tony Boy acknowledges his inner conflict, saying his “instinct is asleep,” suggesting he’s numbed or disconnected. Looking into someone’s eyes, he sees a “labyrinth,” implying that the connection is complex and confusing. He finds strength in moments of weakness, where he feels defeated yet somehow manages to “win.” His emotions are a confusing mix he doesn’t fully understand or control. A temporary thrill, like a rush of endorphins, momentarily lifts him before he returns to darkness, while his heart, compared to dynamite, hints at a powerful but volatile emotional state.

[Pre-Ritornello]
The recurring chant in his mind represents unresolved conflicts, and he feels burdened by both his and someone else’s pain. Tony questions where his sense of self-worth lies, as though he’s a “nobody,” even though people recognize him. This part captures his struggle with impostor syndrome, feeling invisible and overwhelmed by his emotional weight. His self-doubt is juxtaposed with people’s attention, which doesn’t seem to make him feel more confident or secure.

[Ritornello]
In the final chorus, he continues seeking a way to cleanse himself from these haunting thoughts. He’s left with his anxieties reflected back to him as shadows, and although he tries to find release, he’s still reminded of the burdens he carries. The repetition reflects a cycle he can’t seem to escape, where every attempt to let go of his struggles only brings them back into focus.