Exploring the Journey Behind the Album Title

The Meaning Behind “House of Cards”

In a heartfelt reflection, the artist shares how the title of their upcoming album, “House of Cards,” emerged from personal experiences and difficult family dynamics. Following the death of their mother in July 2024, the artist delves into the complexities of their relationship with her, describing it as far from nurturing. With a few poignant lines penned early on, the essence of the album took shape, encapsulating the instability of their upbringing.

Emotional Foundations

The phrase, “You grew up in a stable home / I grew up in a house of cards,” serves as a metaphor for the uncertainty that defined the artist’s childhood. They describe their home life as stressful, filled with emotional and physical abuse, leading them to question their perception of normalcy as they matured.

Realizations Through Reflection

As they began to discuss their past with peers and navigate their own experiences of parenthood, the artist recognized the profound impact of their childhood. This realization became a driving force behind the album, which ultimately centers on the theme of shattered expectations surrounding motherhood.

A Standalone Single: “All That I Remember”

Released prior to the album, the standalone single “All That I Remember” served as a catalyst for exploring familial themes. The song emerged in the wake of the artist’s mother’s death, a tragic event marked by her struggles with alcoholism and health complications. The artist reflects on the turmoil surrounding her passing, noting how her decision to cut off communication with her children in her final days added to the emotional weight of the experience.

Beyond Surface-Level Exploration

While “All That I Remember” captures a fraction of this complex relationship, the artist acknowledges that the broader narrative is woven throughout the album. In particular, the song “House of Cards” resonates with the artist’s siblings, reflecting a shared experience amidst personal turmoil.

The Visual Representation in “House of Cards” Video

The accompanying music video for “House of Cards” features a young child, symbolizing not only the artist’s younger self but also their siblings. Collaborating with director Dan Daly, who shares a similar upbringing, the artist aimed to convey the struggles faced by children of absentee parents.

Narrative Influences

The video draws inspiration from the 1999 film “The Mummy,” paralleling the quest for shelter and safety. The child’s journey through the video mirrors the artist’s own escape through hobbies and sports, serving as a coping mechanism to distance themselves from their troubled home life.

Societal Expectations of Motherhood

At its core, the narrative examines societal expectations surrounding motherhood and the dissonance experienced by those with non-nurturing mothers. The artist poignantly questions the implications of a mother figure who deviates from the ideal of safety and care, highlighting the emotional fallout that can ensue.

Conclusion

The creation of “House of Cards” not only represents a personal catharsis for the artist but also seeks to resonate with others who have faced similar struggles in their familial relationships. Through this album, the artist hopes to shed light on the complexities of motherhood and the impact of adverse childhood experiences, offering a voice to those who find themselves in a similar position.

FAQs

What inspired the album title “House of Cards”?

The title reflects the artist’s unstable childhood and the emotional turmoil experienced due to their mother’s abusive behavior.

How did the song “All That I Remember” contribute to the album’s themes?

This standalone single acted as a catalyst for the album, allowing the artist to explore their complex relationship with their mother and providing insight into their emotional journey.

What is the significance of the child in the “House of Cards” video?

The child symbolizes both the artist’s younger self and their siblings, representing the shared experience of growing up with an absent mother.

How does the album address the concept of motherhood?

The album challenges societal expectations of motherhood by exploring the experiences of those who have faced abusive or neglectful parental figures, highlighting the emotional impact of such relationships.