Curtains Close

In 'Curtains Close,' Arctic Monkeys delve into themes of vulnerability, exposure, and the consequences of disregarding personal boundaries. The song opens with a metaphorical reference to a haircut, symbolizing an unwanted change or loss of control. The protagonist's lament about catching a cold suggests a sense of discomfort and vulnerability, further emphasized by the mention of a 'crack in the doobie,' hinting at a lapse in judgment or a moment of weakness.

The recurring imagery of turning down the lights and leaving the curtains open serves as a powerful metaphor for exposure and vulnerability. By not closing the curtains, the protagonist leaves themselves open to the outside world, symbolizing a lack of privacy and protection. This act of leaving the curtains open, despite turning down the lights, suggests a paradoxical desire to hide while simultaneously being seen, reflecting an internal conflict between wanting to retreat and needing to be acknowledged.

The mention of massage oils and the protagonist's reaction to them introduces a physical discomfort that parallels their emotional state. The redness of the skin can be seen as a manifestation of the protagonist's irritation and unease. The self-description as a 'mad mother-fucker' with open curtains while tucked up in bed encapsulates the tension between a desire for comfort and the reality of exposure. This juxtaposition highlights the protagonist's struggle with their own boundaries and the consequences of their actions, ultimately painting a picture of a person grappling with their own vulnerability and the complexities of human emotions.