When Adrianne Lenker speaks about having "walls up" at the beginning of her band career, she is referring to a defensive stance or emotional barrier she put between herself and others. This kind of wall can manifest as guarded behavior, hesitance to open up emotionally, or difficulty in forming close relationships with bandmates or fans.
The deeper meaning behind this quote lies in the idea that when people embark on new ventures, especially those involving creativity and collaboration such as a musical career, they often feel vulnerable. By building walls, individuals protect themselves from potential criticism, rejection, or disappointment. Over time, however, Lenker likely realized that these defenses hinder personal growth and artistic development. Letting down these barriers allows for greater vulnerability, authenticity, and connection with others, which can lead to richer creative experiences and stronger interpersonal relationships.
Adrianne Lenker is the singer-songwriter and guitarist of the indie folk band Big Thief. Known for her introspective lyrics and emotive vocals, she has gained recognition not only as a musician but also as an influential artist in contemporary music.
