Para

Calexico's song 'Para' delves into the complexities of intimate relationships, exploring the delicate balance between closeness and distance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship marked by both physical and emotional tension. The opening lines, 'I hold your wrist / You bite your lip,' suggest a moment of intense connection that quickly shifts to conflict, as 'The push becomes an embrace.' This duality continues throughout the song, highlighting the ever-changing dynamics between two people who are deeply intertwined yet constantly at odds.

The imagery of physical actions, such as touching a face and closing eyes, juxtaposed with the emotional undertones of shoving and following too closely, underscores the struggle for control and space within the relationship. The repeated refrain, 'Take it down / Take it all the way / Take it down / Take it all the way down below the waterline,' serves as a metaphor for diving deep into the subconscious and confronting the underlying issues that drive these interactions. The waterline symbolizes the boundary between the conscious and unconscious mind, suggesting that true understanding and resolution can only be achieved by exploring the depths of one's emotions.

In the latter part of the song, the lyrics shift to a more reflective tone, with the lines 'I see you now / Through a glass wall / All that is you stays with you / All that is me stays with me.' This imagery of a glass wall represents the barriers that exist between individuals, even in the closest of relationships. Despite these barriers, the song suggests that there is a shared understanding and emotional resonance that transcends physical separation. The final lines reiterate the need to 'Take it down below the waterline,' emphasizing the importance of delving deep into the emotional core to truly connect and resolve the tensions that exist within the relationship.