Come Into the Water

Mitski's song 'Come Into the Water' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of vulnerability, desire, and the tentative steps we take towards intimacy. The repeated invitation to 'come into the water' serves as a metaphor for diving into the depths of emotional connection and the risks associated with it. Water, often symbolizing the subconscious and emotions, suggests that the singer is inviting someone to join her in a space where true feelings are laid bare, away from the superficiality of the surface world.

The lyrics reveal a sense of hesitation and longing. Mitski's plea, 'Do you wanna be my baby? Are you waiting to touch me?' captures the uncertainty and anticipation that often accompany new romantic feelings. The line 'You look so good, but I keep my hands / Til you come into the water' indicates a self-imposed restraint, a waiting game where the singer needs a clear signal before she can fully engage. This reflects a common human experience of needing reassurance before making oneself vulnerable.

Mitski also touches on the theme of self-discovery through love. The lines 'I didn't know I had a dream / I didn't know until I saw you' suggest that the presence of the other person has awakened something within her that she was previously unaware of. This revelation underscores the transformative power of love and connection. The song's introspective nature is characteristic of Mitski's style, blending raw emotion with poetic lyricism to create a deeply resonant piece that speaks to the complexities of human relationships.