Taking up Space

Mustard Service's song 'Taking up Space' delves into the emotional aftermath of a past relationship that continues to haunt the narrator. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the remnants of a love that refuses to fade away. The opening lines, 'I'm going down / I got a bag with the things you left around,' suggest a sense of being weighed down by physical and emotional baggage. These items, 'taking up space,' symbolize the lingering presence of the past lover in the narrator's life, both in a literal and metaphorical sense.

The recurring phrase 'taking up space' is a powerful metaphor for the way memories and unresolved feelings can occupy one's mind and heart. Despite attempts to move on, the narrator admits, 'I tried to shoot you down, you're still alive,' indicating that the past relationship continues to exert a strong influence. This is further emphasized by the line, 'In my heart and on my face,' suggesting that the emotional impact is visible and deeply felt.

As the song progresses, the narrator reveals a sense of guilt and unworthiness in their current relationship. Lines like 'I got another heart, seems to be mine / It treats me good / I don't deserve it, don't feel like I should' reflect an internal struggle with self-worth and the shadow of the past. The repeated refrain, 'It was always the same old dream / For you and me,' underscores the cyclical nature of these emotions, as the narrator remains trapped in a recurring dream of what once was. This song poignantly captures the complexity of moving on from a significant relationship and the enduring impact it can have on one's emotional landscape.