Meaning and Lyrics of Angel by Sarah McLachlan

“Angel” by Sarah McLachlan is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves deep into themes of longing, struggle, vulnerability, and the search for comfort and peace. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is weary, burdened by past experiences, and yearning for solace and release from their pain.

In the first verse, the narrator describes the constant waiting for a second chance, a break that would bring relief from the struggles and feelings of inadequacy that plague them. The desire for distraction and the hope of finding peace are expressed through the imagery of memories seeping from their veins. The longing for emptiness and weightlessness suggests a desire to escape, even temporarily, from the heaviness of their reality.

The chorus introduces the metaphor of being “in the arms of the angel,” symbolizing a place of safety and comfort where one can escape from the darkness and fear that surround them. The imagery of being pulled from the wreckage of silent reverie suggests a deep emotional turmoil that the individual is grappling with, seeking refuge and solace in a metaphorical angel’s embrace.

In the second verse, the weariness and frustration with the challenges of life are highlighted. The presence of “vultures and thieves at your back” symbolizes the constant threat and pressure faced by the individual. The repetition of building lies to cover up insecurities hints at a cycle of self-deception and the struggle to maintain a façade of strength in the face of personal shortcomings.

The bittersweet reflections on the madness and sadness that bring the narrator to their knees illustrate the complexity of emotions they are experiencing. The acknowledgment of the temporary respite found in the embrace of this “glorious sadness” portrays a sense of surrender and acceptance of one’s vulnerabilities.

The recurring chorus reinforces the theme of seeking refuge and comfort in the arms of an angel, offering a sense of hope and reassurance to the listener. The repeated plea for finding comfort signifies a desperate yearning for a place of peace and tranquility amidst the chaos and pain of life.

The outro gently echoes the sentiment of finding comfort in the angel’s embrace, encapsulating the overarching message of the song – a heartfelt wish for solace, healing, and serenity for those grappling with inner turmoil and struggles.

Overall, “Angel” is a deeply moving and introspective song that captures the universal human experiences of pain, longing, and the quest for solace in the midst of adversity, resonating with listeners on an emotional level and offering a message of empathy and understanding.