Past Self Lyrics – Sleep Token

Past Self Lyrics Meaning

[Chorus]
The chorus expresses a sense of uncertainty and change. The singer is asking if someone is willing to join them on a risky path, making it clear that this isn’t just a fantasy. They’re unsure of who they once were and acknowledge that things aren’t the same anymore. There’s an understanding that change is necessary, but it’s also difficult and unfamiliar. The repeated question of whether the other person will dance along with them shows a desire for connection and support during a time of transformation.

[Verse 1]
In this verse, the singer reflects on their past and the changes they’ve undergone. They describe how deep, hidden parts of themselves have emerged, making them confront their past identity. The people around them seem different, and they’re now revisiting things they once let go of, like old regrets or financial concerns. The singer also talks about trying to rid themselves of negative influences (“demons”) but still feels the need for a dark side, indicating an internal conflict. Time seems to move quickly, and the seasons passing mirror their thoughts and struggles.

[Pre-Chorus]
This pre-chorus shows a plea for hope and belief. The singer is asking to be kept alive, both physically and emotionally, in order to take action. There’s a sense of urgency about making a decision, either to move forward or to let it go. The mention of giving away blessings hints at personal sacrifices or letting go of past comforts, while the weightlessness suggests a sense of freedom or being unburdened. However, they also feel torn by those who claimed to believe in them but ultimately let them down.

[Chorus]
The second chorus revisits the idea of change and self-discovery, with the singer expressing the feeling that nothing is the same anymore. They’re still uncertain about who they were, but they acknowledge the need for change. By asking if the other person is willing to “dance on the line,” it’s clear they are inviting someone to join them in navigating this difficult time. The repetition of these lines emphasizes the emotional weight of the decision and the challenge of moving forward, even when they don’t have all the answers.

[Verse 2]
In this verse, the singer wonders if someone, possibly a guiding force or their future self, is influencing them. They ask if their struggles and progress have led to something meaningful, or if it’s all for nothing. The “guardian angel” and “guarding hounds” metaphor suggest they’re looking for protection and guidance as they face challenges, trying to unlock new possibilities. It’s a moment of searching for purpose and questioning what lies ahead.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus here is about intense feelings of love or passion, with the singer expressing a sense of excitement and uncertainty. They’re ready to take risks, whether in love or in life, and move forward without hesitation. There’s a sense of feeling alive, more than before when they were “empty.” The idea of the story being “never-ending” shows they’re committed to an ongoing journey, ready to face whatever comes next together with someone important by their side, highlighting the importance of companionship.

[Chorus]
This chorus mirrors the earlier ones, repeating the same questions about change, uncertainty, and self-discovery. The singer remains unsure of their past self but recognizes that things can’t stay the same. The lines emphasize the need for action, the necessity of change, and the emotional weight that comes with it. It’s clear that they’re not alone in this journey, but they are still grappling with their identity and the changes around them, urging someone to take the risk with them.

[Outro]
The outro is a simple but powerful expression of fear and vulnerability. The singer repeatedly states that they don’t want to feel lost again, indicating the emotional struggle they’ve been through. It’s a desire to not return to a place of confusion or emptiness, highlighting their need for clarity and direction moving forward. This repetition underscores the importance of finding themselves and avoiding the feeling of being adrift or uncertain once more.