The meaning of What Brightness by The Dresden Dolls

The Dresden Dolls' song "What Brightness" is a hauntingly beautiful track that explores themes of love, loss, and longing. The lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, with lead vocalist Amanda Palmer delivering a poignant performance that draws listeners in.

On the surface, the song appears to be about a romantic relationship that has ended, with Palmer singing about the lingering memories and emotions that remain after someone is gone. But as the lyrics unfold, it becomes clear that "What Brightness" is actually a song about grief, and the struggle to come to terms with the loss of a loved one.

Palmer's voice is particularly evocative on this track, conveying a sense of vulnerability and sadness that is impossible to ignore. The music itself is sparse and intimate, featuring a simple but effective piano melody that underscores the emotional weight of Palmer's lyrics.

One of the most striking aspects of "What Brightness" is its use of imagery and metaphor to describe the pain of losing someone. Palmer sings about the "brightness" that remains in her memory, even after the person is gone – a brightness that is both beautiful and heartbreaking. It's a powerful and moving image, one that captures the complexity and depth of human emotions.

Throughout the song, Palmer also touches on the theme of time and how it can both heal and hurt. She sings about the "days that go by like hours" and the "hours that feel like days," highlighting the way that our perception of time can shift in response to loss. It's a poignant reminder that grief is a process that takes time, but also that time can be a powerful healer.

Ultimately, "What Brightness" is a song about the beauty and pain of human connection – and the ways in which we can find solace and meaning even in the darkest moments. With its simple yet powerful melody and Palmer's heart-wrenching vocals, it's a track that will resonate with anyone who has ever experienced loss or longing.