decay

Nessa Barrett's song "decay" delves into the theme of undying love, even in the face of inevitable mortality and decay. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that persists beyond the physical realm, transcending the decay of the body and the end of life. Barrett uses stark and morbid imagery, such as bodies withering and bugs inside brains, to emphasize the depth and permanence of this love. The repeated promise to still be around even after decay highlights a commitment that defies the natural order and societal expectations.

The song also explores the idea of a relationship against the world, where the couple faces external pressures and doubts about their future together. The line "everyone wants to sink their teeth and stop our breathing" suggests a hostile environment where their love is under constant threat. Despite this, the narrator's unwavering dedication is clear, as they vow to stay together even in death, symbolized by the metaphor of being a "corpse bride." This defiance against societal norms and the grim acceptance of their fate adds a layer of rebellious romance to the song.

Barrett's use of dark, gothic imagery and themes of decay and death is reflective of her musical style, which often blends elements of pop with darker, more introspective lyrics. The song's haunting melody and melancholic tone further enhance the sense of a love that is both beautiful and tragic. By embracing the inevitability of decay, Barrett's lyrics suggest that true love is not bound by time or physical existence, but rather, it endures through all forms of decay and destruction.