Tattoos

Natalie Jane's song 'Tattoos' delves deep into the emotional aftermath of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that has left lasting scars, much like tattoos, but with a pain that runs deeper and is more enduring. The metaphor of tattoos is used to illustrate the permanence of the emotional wounds inflicted by a partner who was inattentive and dismissive. The comparison between the physical pain of getting a tattoo and the emotional pain of heartbreak highlights the intensity of the latter, suggesting that the emotional scars are far more difficult to heal.

The song opens with the protagonist questioning her significance in the relationship, feeling like an 'afterthought' and dealing with the 'aftershock' of being shaken by her partner's actions. The use of 'Novocaine in goodbye' symbolizes the need to numb the pain of parting ways, yet the pain persists, leading to a sense of confusion and longing for answers. The repeated questioning of 'why' underscores the protagonist's struggle to understand the reasons behind the hurtful behavior.

Throughout the song, Natalie Jane emphasizes the brutality of the emotional pain inflicted by her partner. The imagery of 'engraving your name straight into my veins' suggests a deep, inescapable connection that is both painful and permanent. The partner's actions, such as showing up late and making excuses, further exacerbate the protagonist's feelings of betrayal and worthlessness. The recurring refrain 'tattoos hurt less than you' serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring pain of emotional wounds, which, unlike tattoos, cannot be easily erased or forgotten.