Small Time Shot Away

Massive Attack's 'Small Time Shot Away' delves into the complexities and emotional battles within intimate relationships. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a relationship that is both intoxicating and destructive, filled with moments of connection and disconnection. The recurring phrase 'It's wartime every time' suggests a constant state of conflict, where even the smallest interactions can feel like battles. This metaphor of war highlights the intensity and volatility of the relationship, where emotional wounds are inflicted and healing seems elusive.

The lyrics also explore themes of dependency and escapism. Phrases like 'She cut me a line and she turned me on' and 'It's my favourite chloroform' indicate a reliance on substances or actions to numb the pain and escape reality. The use of 'chloroform' as a metaphor suggests a desire to be unconscious or unaware, to avoid facing the harsh truths of the relationship. This escapism is further emphasized by the repetition of 'I travel far,' indicating a need to distance oneself from the emotional turmoil.

The imagery of 'identical twins sucking on the same teat' and 'spitting out the same things' suggests a deep, almost symbiotic connection between the partners, yet one that is ultimately unhealthy. The relationship is depicted as a cycle of hurt and healing, where moments of closeness are quickly followed by emotional ricochets and friction wounds. The song's title, 'Small Time Shot Away,' encapsulates this idea of minor yet impactful emotional hits that accumulate over time, leaving lasting scars. Through its haunting lyrics and metaphors, Massive Attack captures the essence of a relationship fraught with conflict, dependency, and the struggle for emotional survival.