This, My Porcelain Life

Rasputina's song 'This, My Porcelain Life' delves into the delicate and often fragile nature of human existence and relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels isolated and misunderstood, living a life that is as fragile as porcelain. The metaphor of porcelain is used to highlight the vulnerability and breakability of the narrator's life, suggesting that even the slightest disturbance can cause irreparable damage.

The song opens with the narrator expressing regret and a sense of futility in communication, as they instruct the recipient to burn and forget the letter. This sets the tone for a relationship that is fraught with misunderstandings and unspoken emotions. The narrator describes themselves as a 'fugitive in decay,' living in a small, isolated space, yet constantly thinking of the person they are addressing. This duality of wanting to be alone while still being emotionally tethered to someone else is a recurring theme in the song.

The chorus emphasizes the complexity of the relationship, describing the recipient as a 'master of the commerce of friendship,' suggesting a transactional nature to their interactions. The narrator's struggle to maintain their own identity and sense of self in the face of this relationship is palpable. They reject the recipient's protection, preferring to live in their 'wild and watery' section, free from captivity. The song concludes with a poignant reflection on the breakability of their 'porcelain life,' underscoring the inherent fragility and vulnerability that defines their existence.

Rasputina, known for their unique blend of cello-driven rock and historical themes, uses this song to explore the emotional landscape of human fragility and the complexities of interpersonal relationships. The band's distinctive style and lyrical depth make 'This, My Porcelain Life' a haunting and thought-provoking piece that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of their own vulnerability.