Choke

The Cardigans' song 'Choke' delves into the complexities of communication and the emotional turmoil that arises from unspoken words. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship strained by the inability to express true feelings. The opening lines, 'A common line, I closed my eyes, But couldn't let it go,' suggest a recurring issue or argument that the narrator tries to ignore but can't seem to move past. This sets the stage for a narrative about missed opportunities and the consequences of holding back emotions.

The chorus, 'It's rather sad, It feels like we've never, Made it together since,' underscores a sense of regret and loss. The phrase 'never made it together' implies that the relationship has been stuck in a state of limbo, unable to progress due to unresolved issues. The use of the word 'sad' twice emphasizes the depth of the emotional pain and the lingering sense of what could have been. The imagery of holding someone 'in my throat' and 'choking' on words further illustrates the suffocating effect of unspoken emotions.

The final lines, 'We'll never have the guts, To discover, We'll choke on it and die,' are particularly poignant. They suggest a resigned acceptance that the relationship will never reach its full potential because both parties lack the courage to confront their feelings. This fatalistic view highlights the tragic nature of the situation, where the fear of vulnerability ultimately leads to emotional suffocation. The Cardigans use these powerful metaphors to explore the devastating impact of communication barriers in relationships, making 'Choke' a hauntingly relatable song for anyone who has struggled with expressing their true feelings.