I Only Paint in Red Now Lyrics – Lydia the Bard

I Only Paint in Red Now Lyrics Meaning

[Intro]
The intro sets the tone for the song, inviting the listener into a chaotic Wonderland where madness reigns. It reassures newcomers that they belong, emphasizing a shared craziness among its inhabitants.

[Verse One]
In the first verse, we meet a girl trapped in a confusing maze, seeking help but only encountering riddles and threats. Despite feeling lost for days, she remains unfazed, suggesting resilience. The lines about truth and lies highlight her struggle to understand reality in a world that feels upside-down. She questions her identity and the nature of her surroundings, grappling with the choice between holding onto her sanity or embracing the madness around her. It captures a sense of disorientation and the challenge of finding clarity in chaos.

[Pre-Chorus]
This pre-chorus illustrates the girl’s long journey, meeting whimsical characters that shift from friendly to hostile. The reference to “feline smiles” hints at the Cheshire Cat’s trickery, reinforcing her growing discomfort. It emphasizes the unsettling realization that she is now part of this chaotic world, blending curiosity with dread.

[Chorus]
In the chorus, the imagery of “crimson red hearts” suggests a mix of emotional turmoil and a fierce resolve. The singer vows to embrace her new identity in Wonderland, signaling a transformation. The mention of tearing apart “Hatters and cards” indicates a rebellious spirit against the oppressive figures in this realm. As she acknowledges the pain and confusion surrounding her, the repetition of “I only paint in red now” underscores her acceptance of this chaotic life. She feels trapped, but there’s a defiance in claiming her place, blending beauty with darkness.

[Verse Two]
In the second verse, the singer reflects on her surreal experiences, looking into a mirror that distorts her reality. She expresses a longing for home and feels overwhelmed by time slipping away. This reflects her struggle with identity and the desire to escape the madness while simultaneously being drawn into it. The invitation to “join the wild” suggests a temptation to let go and embrace the chaos fully.

[Pre-Chorus]
Here, the pre-chorus highlights her fading clarity and the chaotic thoughts invading her mind. The whimsical words of Wonderland spill from her lips, showing her gradual surrender to this alternate reality. It reinforces the idea that she’s becoming part of this strange world, losing touch with her former self.

[Chorus]
The chorus repeats the powerful themes from earlier, emphasizing her acceptance of the chaotic nature of Wonderland. She feels a deep connection to the “crimson red hearts,” suggesting a new understanding of her emotions. The plea for help indicates her struggle with her identity in this confusing place, while her determination to embrace her crown shows a mix of vulnerability and strength. The repeated insistence that she “only paints in red now” solidifies her commitment to this newfound identity, despite the darkness it entails.

[Bridge]
In the bridge, the singer plays with language, offering riddles as a reflection of her new reality. The urgency of time running out evokes a sense of panic, trapping her in this nightmare. She questions what she has become, highlighting her inner conflict and fear. The call for “tea” adds a surreal touch, grounding her in the Wonderland theme while emphasizing her disconnection from reality.

[Chorus]
In this final chorus, the repetition deepens her sense of entrapment and confusion. The vivid imagery of “crimson red hearts” and cries for help reveals her emotional struggle and desperation for clarity. She questions her identity and the futility of trying to escape, feeling like she’s losing her grip on sanity. As she embraces the chaos, the line about painting in red symbolizes her acceptance of both the beauty and horror of her situation. Ultimately, it’s a powerful blend of defiance, resignation, and the bittersweet nature of her new existence in Wonderland.