Water On Glass

Kim Wilde's 'Water On Glass' delves into the haunting and repetitive nature of intrusive thoughts and mental distress. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a sound that cascades and vaporizes into vision, symbolizing how these thoughts can become all-consuming and inescapable. The recurring imagery of 'water on glass' serves as a metaphor for the relentless and cyclical nature of these mental disturbances, much like water continuously running down a windowpane.

The lyrics express a sense of entrapment, as Wilde describes the sound in her head that feels like a prison. This metaphor highlights the feeling of being trapped by one's own mind, unable to escape the persistent noise. The plea for the sound to pass and the hope that it won't last underscore the desperation and longing for relief from this mental anguish. The repetition of the phrase 'can you hear it' suggests a cry for understanding and empathy from others, emphasizing the isolating nature of such experiences.

The song also touches on the sensory overload that often accompanies mental distress. The 'lights on a moving coloured river' and the 'shiver' felt by Wilde illustrate how these intrusive thoughts can affect one's perception and physical sensations. The sound of running water becomes a symbol of the constant, unrelenting nature of these thoughts, creating a sense of urgency and helplessness. Through 'Water On Glass,' Kim Wilde captures the essence of mental struggle, using powerful metaphors and vivid imagery to convey the emotional and psychological impact of living with intrusive thoughts.