​twenty one pilots

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
The air begins to feel a little thin
As I start the car and then I begin
To add the miles piled up behind me
I barely feel a smile deep inside me

[Verse 2]
And I begin to envy the headlights driving south
I want to crack the door so I can just fall out
But then I remember when you packed my car
You reached in the back and buckled up your heart

[Refrain]
For me to drive away with
I began to understand why God died

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 3]
The demon sat there waiting on her porch
It was a little dark, so he held a makeshift torch
And when my car was far out of sight
He crept in her room and stayed there for the night

[Bridge]
And then I felt chills in my bones
The breath I saw was not my own
I knew my skin that wrapped my frame
Wasn't made to play this game
And then I saw him, torch in hand
He laid it out, what he had planned
And then I said, "I'll take the grave
Please, just send them all my way"
Then I felt chills in my bones
The breath I saw was not my own
I knew my skin that wrapped my frame
Wasn't made to play this game
And then I saw him, torch in hand
He laid it out, what he had planned
And then I said, "I'll take the grave
Please, just send them all my way"
[Refrain]
I began to understand why God died

[Verse 4]
The air begins to feel a little thin
As we're waiting for the morning to begin
But for now, you told me to hold this jar
And when I looked inside, I saw it held your heart

[Refrain]
For me to walk away with
I began to understand why God died

Are you ready to dive into the emotional world of Twenty One Pilots? Get ready to explore the depths of their song "A Car, a Torch, a Death." This track, found on their self-titled debut album, is not only a captivating musical experience but also a thought-provoking journey into the mind and perspective of the band. As we unravel the layers of this song, we'll discover the connection between religion, personal introspection, and the enigmatic themes commonly found in Twenty One Pilots' music.

About A Car, a Torch, a Death

A Car, a Torch, a Death occupies a unique space within Twenty One Pilots' discography. While the band often delves into topics of depression and suicidal thoughts, this track takes a different approach. Upon closer examination of the lyrics, it becomes apparent that these words may be spoken from the perspective of Jesus during his time of prayer and reflection in Gethsemane, shortly before his arrest and crucifixion.

The narrative of the song revolves around Tyler Joseph, the band's lead vocalist and songwriter, coming to a realization about the sacrificial nature of Jesus's death for the sins of humanity. The lyrics are rich with religious imagery and metaphors, creating a powerful depiction of the emotional weight carried by Jesus in that pivotal moment.

Throughout "A Car, a Torch, a Death," Tyler Joseph explores the profound significance of Jesus's sacrifice, drawing parallels to his own struggles with mental health. This blending of themes allows the listener to consider the deeper implications of the human condition, tying together spirituality and personal introspection.

The track opens with an intriguing line, "I ponder of something terrifying 'cause this time there's no sound to hide behind." Through these words, Tyler alludes to the vulnerable state he finds himself in, as well as the introspective nature of his thoughts. The absence of sound represents a lack of distraction, forcing him to confront his fears head-on.

The song continues to paint a vivid picture of the internal conflict Tyler experiences, with lyrics like "So this is it? You're sold out? But enough of that, right?" Here, the tension between doubt and faith is palpable, as he questions the extent of his commitment to his beliefs.

As the track progresses, the listener is taken on a tumultuous journey that mirrors the emotional rollercoaster of Tyler's contemplation. The chorus, "Three lights are lit but the fourth one's out," implies a sense of imbalance and uncertainty. This imagery represents the need for spiritual guidance and illumination.

One of the most striking aspects of "A Car, a Torch, a Death" is the juxtaposition of religious imagery with the band's signature alternative sound. The combination of introspective lyrics, poignant melodies, and powerful instrumentals creates a hauntingly beautiful composition that resonates deeply with listeners.

As we reach the climax of the song, Tyler's introspection culminates in a poignant realization: "Now the night is coming to an end. The sun will rise and we will try again." These lines symbolize hope and the possibility of redemption, echoing the universal human experience of facing difficulties and finding the strength to persevere.

In the end, "A Car, a Torch, a Death" encapsulates Twenty One Pilots' ability to tackle complex themes in a thought-provoking manner. Through the lens of religion and personal introspection, this track invites the listener on a profound journey of self-discovery and contemplation. Tyler Joseph's introspective lyrics, combined with the band's unique musical style, create an immersive experience that lingers long after the final chords fade away. So buckle up and allow "A Car, a Torch, a Death" to guide you through the depths of emotion and spirituality.

• Release Date: December 29, 2009
• Artist: ​twenty one pilots