Jekyll

At the outset of 'Jekyll,' listeners are drawn into a world where the protagonist finds themselves in an internal battle, mirrored by the reference to Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. These characters signify a split persona, where one side strives for control and the other acts out, causing disruption. The sentiment of refusing entry to this disruptive side shows an attempt to maintain composure and self-control, setting the tone for a journey of conflict and resolution.

As percussion and rhythms build, Hiatus Kaiyote's Nai Palm leads us through an emotional landscape marked by nostalgia and deterioration—symbolized by the 'fraying seam.' The grieving of old-fashioned values and the consequences of such grief suggest a spiraling descent, hinting at the breakdown of the protagonist's emotional state and possibly their relationships, adding to the tension within the song's narrative.

The mention of silk that has 'rusted dry' and the flux slipping past a fortress evoke a vivid image of change overcoming rigid defenses. Here, the listeners are taken through an evolution, where the protective barriers one has built are being effortlessly bypassed by the forces of change, suggesting a growing helplessness or, conversely, an awakening to new possibilities.

In the last verses, the plea for a 'sweet peace of mind' acts as a poignant yearning for stability amidst the chaos. The repetitive nature of this plea illustrates the oscillating journey between distress and the desire for tranquility. The mention of always being 'in flight' can be interpreted as a perennial state of change or fleeing, keeping in theme with the ever-evolving self that is never static and continuously searching for solace.