Breathe Underwater

Placebo's song "Breathe Underwater" delves into the themes of personal struggle, self-reflection, and the quest for redemption. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their inner demons and the weight of past mistakes. The opening lines, "Here comes another fall from grace / I'm always falling on my face," set the tone for a narrative of repeated failures and the frustration that accompanies them. The protagonist's attempt to replace a lost love and the struggle to reconcile their current self with the "wounded child hiding deep inside" highlights a deep-seated emotional turmoil.

The recurring metaphor of "breathing underwater" symbolizes the suffocating feeling of being overwhelmed by life's challenges. The desire to "come up for air" represents a yearning for relief, clarity, and a fresh start. This is further emphasized by the lines, "I wanna see another dawn / Comin' up for air," which suggest a longing for a new beginning and the hope of overcoming the darkness. The mention of being "sick of the slaughter" indicates a weariness with the constant battles and the toll they take on one's spirit.

The song also touches on themes of isolation and vulnerability. The line, "Take my ego for a ride / 'Cause there's nobody by my side," speaks to the loneliness and the struggle to maintain a facade of strength. The protagonist's admission of their "weakness laid bare" and the resolve that "It's the last time, I swear" reflect a moment of self-awareness and determination to change. The repeated plea to "stop breathing" can be interpreted as a desire to escape the pain, but ultimately, the resolve to "come up for air" signifies a commitment to face the challenges head-on and seek redemption.