Keep Them Still

Strange Boutique's song 'Keep Them Still' delves into the emotional turmoil of reclaiming one's identity and autonomy after a period of emotional entanglement. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and poetic language, reflecting a deep sense of betrayal and the desire to regain control over one's own emotions and perceptions. The repeated plea to 'send home my long strayed eyes' and 'send home my harmless heart' suggests a longing to retrieve parts of oneself that have been lost or compromised in the relationship. The eyes and heart symbolize the narrator's ability to see clearly and feel purely, both of which have been tainted by the experience with the other person.

The phrase 'keep them still' is particularly poignant, indicating a resignation to the fact that these parts of the narrator may no longer be their own. This resignation is further emphasized by the lines 'if it be taught by thine keep it still for then Ôtis none of mine,' which suggest that the narrator's heart has been so influenced by the other person that it no longer feels like their own. The song captures the painful realization that reclaiming these parts may be impossible, and the narrator must come to terms with this loss.

The song also touches on themes of deception and broken promises, as seen in the lines 'if you cross both word and oath keep them still.' This highlights the betrayal the narrator feels, as the other person's words and promises have proven to be false. The final plea to 'send me back my heart and eyes that I may know and see thy lies' underscores the narrator's desire for clarity and truth, even if it means facing the painful reality of the other person's deceit. 'Keep Them Still' is a haunting exploration of the struggle to reclaim one's sense of self in the aftermath of a damaging relationship.