Sleeping With Ghosts

Placebo's 'Sleeping With Ghosts' is a song that delves into the themes of loss, disillusionment, and the enduring connection between soulmates. The lyrics open with a metaphor of a sea that has evaporated, suggesting a sense of loss or something that has disappeared, which could be interpreted as the end of a relationship or the loss of innocence. The 'explosions in the sky' could symbolize moments of realization or epiphanies that come too late, contributing to a sense of regret or missed opportunities.

The chorus, with its comforting repetition of 'Dry your eye,' serves as a soothing mantra, offering solace and reassurance in the face of sorrow. The assertion that 'soulmates never die' speaks to the idea that the bond between two people who are deeply connected transcends physical existence or temporal concerns. This could be interpreted as a message of hope that love and connection are not bound by the limitations of life and death.

The song also touches on broader societal issues with the lines 'What good's religion / When it's each other we despise?' and 'Damn the government / Damn their killing / Damn their lies.' These lines express a sense of frustration with the state of the world, where systems of belief and governance fail to prevent conflict and suffering. The personal pain expressed in the song is juxtaposed with these larger issues, suggesting that both personal and societal healing are needed.