Do You Close Your Eyes

The Smashing Pumpkins' song 'Do You Close Your Eyes' delves into the complexities of love, trust, and hidden emotions. The lyrics are rich with questions that probe the listener's introspection about their own relationships. The recurring question, 'Do you close your eyes when you kiss me,' suggests a longing for genuine connection and intimacy. Closing one's eyes during a kiss is often seen as a sign of trust and emotional immersion, indicating a deeper bond between the individuals involved.

The song also explores themes of deception and self-deception. Lines like 'The lies become the truth you hide' and 'The lies become the lusty night' hint at the duality of human emotions and the masks people wear in relationships. The 'looking-glass surprise' metaphor suggests a reflection of one's true self, hidden behind layers of lies and pretense. This duality is further emphasized by the contrast between 'golden bells' and 'tears,' symbolizing moments of joy overshadowed by underlying sorrow.

Moreover, the song touches on the idea of unfulfilled love and the loneliness that accompanies it. The lines 'The one you want will stand alone / The one you love is never known' poignantly capture the essence of unrequited love and the silent suffering it brings. The moon as a 'silent confidant' adds a layer of melancholy, representing a distant, unattainable source of comfort. The song's introspective nature encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love, trust, and the often unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface.