Cat's Cradle
Flower Face
The Tangled Obsession in 'Cat's Cradle' by Flower Face
Flower Face's song 'Cat's Cradle' delves into the complexities of unrequited love and obsession. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone deeply infatuated with another person, to the point of collecting their pictures and dressing in their clothes. This behavior suggests a longing to be closer to the object of their affection, even if it means living vicariously through their belongings. The reference to 'translating all our planets' and 'messages in code' hints at a relationship that is distant and perhaps misunderstood, where communication is cryptic and indirect.
The chorus reveals the emotional turmoil of the protagonist, who spends their days and nights consumed by thoughts of the person they adore. The juxtaposition of 'cool' and 'cruel' highlights the duality of their feelings—admiration mixed with the pain of unreciprocated love. The line 'Oh no, I'm dreaming again' underscores the recurring nature of these fantasies, which offer a temporary escape from the harsh reality of their unfulfilled desires.
The metaphor of the 'cat's cradle' is particularly poignant. A cat's cradle is a string game that involves intricate patterns and knots, symbolizing the tangled and complicated emotions the protagonist feels. The imagery of walking through the rain and crawling through hell to be with the person they love further emphasizes the lengths they are willing to go, despite the lack of recognition or reciprocation. The song captures the essence of a love that is both beautiful and tormenting, a common theme in Flower Face's introspective and emotionally charged music.