3 Libras
A Perfect Circle
The Unseen Sorrow in '3 Libras'
A Perfect Circle's '3 Libras' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into the themes of unrequited love and the feeling of invisibility in the eyes of another. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and disappointment, as the speaker has made an effort to be noticed ('Threw you the obvious') but remains unseen ('And you don't see me'). The repeated references to the 'obvious' suggest that the speaker's feelings and attempts at connection are clear and straightforward, yet they fail to elicit a response or recognition from the object of their affection.
The metaphor of the 'fallen angel' and 'eyes of a tragedy' paints a picture of someone who once had grace or purity but is now in a state of sorrow or loss. This imagery suggests that the speaker sees depth and a story of downfall in the person they are drawn to, which adds a layer of complexity to their unreciprocated feelings. The song's chorus emphasizes the speaker's desire to understand and connect with this person on a deeper level.
Despite the speaker's efforts, the song ends with a somber realization ('Apparently nothing at all') that their feelings are not acknowledged. The repetition of 'You don't see me' throughout the song underscores the central theme of invisibility and the pain of being overlooked. The minimalist instrumentation and Maynard James Keenan's emotive vocals contribute to the song's melancholic atmosphere, making '3 Libras' a poignant exploration of emotional vulnerability and the human desire to be seen and understood.