Between The Breaths

Mitski's 'Between The Breaths' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the spaces that exist in relationships, both physical and emotional. The song delves into the unspoken connections and the silent understandings that bind people together. The recurring phrase 'between the breaths' suggests a liminal space, a place of quiet intimacy where words are unnecessary, and feelings are deeply felt but not always articulated. This space is where the essence of the relationship resides, a place of mutual understanding and unspoken communication.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, such as 'illuminated in scars' and 'a shrug of dark matter,' which evoke a sense of cosmic connection and the passage of time. The comparison of 'flame to snow' and 'first love to last' highlights the contrasts and transitions in relationships, from the initial spark to the enduring bond. Mitski's use of celestial imagery, like stars and starlight, adds a layer of timelessness and universality to the song, suggesting that these emotions and connections are as old as the universe itself.

Mitski's lyrical style often involves a blend of vulnerability and strength, and 'Between The Breaths' is no exception. The lines 'You never asked my age, you never questioned my rage' and 'The blood in my gut is a thousand years old' speak to a deep, almost primal connection that transcends the superficial aspects of identity. The song captures the essence of a relationship that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, where the most profound connections are often found in the spaces between words and breaths.