Seesaw

Melanie Martinez's song 'Seesaw' delves into the complexities and emotional turbulence of a romantic relationship that feels inconsistent and unbalanced. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that oscillates between highs and lows, much like the motion of a seesaw. Martinez uses this metaphor to express the instability and unpredictability she feels in her relationship, where moments of joy and affection are quickly followed by confusion and doubt.

In the song, Martinez describes the bittersweet experience of being deeply infatuated with someone who doesn't seem to reciprocate her feelings fully. Lines like 'I get butterflies when you kiss my cheek' and 'There's something about the way you look at me' highlight her genuine affection and the emotional highs she experiences. However, these moments are contrasted with feelings of uncertainty and frustration, as seen in 'But on the streets you won't hold my hand / How do you expect me to understand?' This juxtaposition underscores the emotional seesaw she finds herself on, where her partner's inconsistent behavior leaves her feeling unsteady and unsure.

The chorus reinforces this theme of fluctuating emotions, with Martinez singing, 'Up and down your love is like a seesaw.' This line encapsulates the core of the song, emphasizing the cyclical nature of her relationship's highs and lows. The repeated questioning of whether she is just a phase in her partner's life further amplifies her insecurity and longing for a deeper, more stable connection. Through 'Seesaw,' Martinez captures the essence of a love that is both exhilarating and exhausting, leaving listeners to reflect on their own experiences with the unpredictable nature of romantic relationships.