The Attic

Poppy's song 'The Attic' delves into the complexities of emotional vulnerability and the lingering effects of past traumas. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the fear of being abandoned and hurt again, as evidenced by lines like 'Can I put my bags down here? How do I know you won't disappear?' This opening sets the stage for a narrative of cautious optimism mixed with deep-seated anxiety. The protagonist is wary of rushing into a new relationship, haunted by the ghosts of past experiences that have left them scarred and hesitant to trust fully.

The metaphor of the attic serves as a powerful symbol throughout the song. The attic, often a place where old, forgotten, or unwanted items are stored, represents the protagonist's mind, cluttered with unresolved issues and fears. The repeated phrase 'panic in the attic' underscores the mental turmoil and anxiety that the protagonist feels. Despite being physically grounded ('Got my feet on the ground'), their mind is in disarray ('my head's up the stairs'), indicating a disconnect between their emotional state and their outward appearance. This duality is further emphasized by the contrast between the 'basement' and 'first floor,' which are relatively stable, and the chaotic attic.

Poppy's lyrical exploration also touches on the impact of parental abandonment, as seen in the line 'Or will you leave me like my father did when I was a kid?' This adds another layer of depth to the song, suggesting that the protagonist's current fears are rooted in childhood experiences. The song questions whether it's possible to shift one's mindset ('Can I make the paradigm shift?') and move past these ingrained fears. However, the recurring theme of panic suggests that this is a challenging and ongoing struggle. The song ultimately captures the essence of living with emotional baggage and the difficulty of opening up to new possibilities while still haunted by the past.