Big Sleep

Lissom's 'Big Sleep' is a haunting exploration of existential despair and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. The song opens with the imagery of a 'big, big sleep,' a metaphor for death or a deep, unending slumber. The narrator reflects on their experiences, having been 'on the edges' and seen 'all the endings,' suggesting a life lived on the periphery, observing rather than participating. The reference to 'evergreen, felled and into pieces' evokes a sense of destruction and loss, yet there's a paradoxical peace in the loudness of its sound.

The chorus, with its repeated lines 'Can't get back to life now' and 'Can't get anywhere fast,' underscores a feeling of being stuck, unable to move forward or reclaim past vitality. The phrase 'Won't let anything last' hints at a transient existence where nothing is permanent, adding to the sense of futility. The narrator's plea to 'say it to me in any other language' reflects a desperate need for understanding and connection, even if it comes from an unfamiliar source. The 'deck of dreams' and the idea of floating 'beyond the vantage' suggest a longing to escape reality and find solace in dreams or alternate realities.

The song's bridge introduces a cyclical pattern of 'turning in circles' and 'swimming in hell,' juxtaposed with 'heaven eternal, just for an hour, just for now.' This contrast highlights the fleeting nature of happiness and the perpetual struggle between moments of bliss and prolonged suffering. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the inescapable nature of the narrator's predicament, leaving the listener with a profound sense of melancholy and introspection. Lissom's ethereal soundscape and poignant lyrics create a powerful meditation on the human condition, resonating deeply with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of existence.