The Trick Is To Keep Breathing

Garbage's song "The Trick Is To Keep Breathing" delves into the complexities of emotional turmoil and the struggle to maintain composure amidst life's challenges. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman who is introspective and hesitant to share her feelings with the world. She is depicted as someone who takes her time to make decisions and prefers to avoid conflict, symbolized by the line "She doesn't want to fight against the tide." This suggests a desire for peace and stability in a world that often feels overwhelming.

The recurring theme of mistrust is evident in the lines "I'm not the only one, I say never trust anyone." This sentiment reflects a deep-seated skepticism and perhaps past experiences of betrayal or disappointment. The song also touches on the impact of another person's pain and how it can be projected onto others, as seen in the line "So sick, he cannot move, and when it hurts he takes it out on you." This highlights the cyclical nature of suffering and the way it can affect relationships.

The chorus, with its repeated mantra "The trick is to keep breathing," serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience. It suggests that despite the chaos and emotional pain, the key to survival is to keep going, to keep breathing. This simple yet profound message resonates with anyone who has faced adversity and needed to find a way to persevere. The song ultimately offers a sense of hope, implying that by continuing to breathe and move forward, one can navigate through the difficulties and perhaps even achieve what they desire.