Helium

Glass Animals' song 'Helium' delves into the complexities and fragility of a romantic relationship that seems doomed from the start. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both intoxicating and unstable, much like helium balloons that float away, beautiful but ephemeral. The opening lines set the tone for a relationship teetering on the edge, with the narrator questioning whether to continue or let go. The metaphor of 'puppy love' suggests an immature, fleeting affection that struggles to transition into something more substantial.

The chorus reveals a poignant realization: the narrator desires their partner more than they initially thought, but this desire is complicated by the knowledge that their partner is emotionally invested elsewhere. This duality of wanting and knowing they can't fully have the other person creates a sense of longing and inevitable heartbreak. The imagery of 'sunflowers in the rain' and 'white pyramids' sinking into the sand further emphasizes the theme of beautiful things that are ultimately unsustainable.

The song also touches on the idea of flawed beginnings and the difficulty of building something lasting on shaky foundations. The reference to 'blood diamonds'—precious yet tainted—serves as a powerful metaphor for a relationship that is outwardly perfect but fundamentally flawed. The closing lines suggest a sense of resignation, as the narrator acknowledges that their partner prefers the 'backstreets'—a metaphor for secrecy and avoidance—over a genuine connection. 'Helium' captures the bittersweet essence of a love that is both alluring and unattainable, leaving the listener with a sense of melancholy and reflection.