Sleep Awake

Mother Mother's song 'Sleep Awake' delves into the complex interplay between protection, paranoia, and the constant state of alertness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is perpetually on guard, unable to fully relax or let their guard down. This state of hyper-vigilance is reflected in the repeated phrase 'I sleep awake,' suggesting a paradox where the individual is never truly at rest, even when they are supposed to be sleeping. The imagery of throwing evidence into the sea and carving away fingerprints indicates a desire to erase traces of one's actions, perhaps to protect oneself or others from some form of danger or consequence.

The song's narrative is filled with metaphors that highlight the tension between safety and fear. For instance, the line 'I sleep with one hand on my royal flush, the other on the take' juxtaposes the idea of holding a winning hand in a game with the act of taking something illicitly. This duality suggests that the protagonist is constantly balancing between success and risk, always prepared for both outcomes. Similarly, the mention of a '45' (a reference to a firearm) and a 'baby's waist' in the same breath underscores the conflicting priorities of protection and intimacy.

Culturally, 'Sleep Awake' can be seen as a commentary on the modern condition of anxiety and the lengths to which people go to feel secure. The protagonist's actions—keeping a started car ready, sleeping with lights on—are extreme measures that reflect a deep-seated fear of vulnerability. Mother Mother's musical style, known for its eclectic and often darkly humorous approach, adds another layer to the song, making it both a personal and a broader societal reflection on the cost of constant vigilance.