Push

The Cure's song 'Push' delves into the complexities of emotional turmoil and the struggle for self-realization. The lyrics, penned by Robert Smith, are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery that paint a picture of internal conflict and the desire to break free from a stifling situation. The repeated phrases 'Go go go' and 'Push him away' suggest a sense of urgency and the need to escape from an oppressive force or relationship. This urgency is contrasted with the plea 'No no no, don't let him stay,' highlighting the internal battle between wanting to leave and the fear of change or the unknown.

The lines 'He gets inside to stare at her, the seeping mouth, the mouth that knows, the secret you, always you' evoke a sense of invasion and vulnerability. The 'seeping mouth' could symbolize someone who is manipulative or emotionally draining, someone who knows the protagonist's deepest secrets and uses them to control or harm. This imagery is powerful in conveying the feeling of being trapped and exposed, unable to hide from the prying eyes of this invasive presence.

The metaphor 'Oh smear this man across the walls like strawberries and cream' is particularly striking. It suggests a violent yet almost surreal act of erasing or obliterating the oppressive figure, blending the grotesque with the mundane. The repetition of 'Exactly the same clean room, exactly the same clean bed' underscores a sense of monotony and stagnation, while the realization 'But I've stayed away too long this time, and I've got too big to fit this time' signifies personal growth and the recognition that the protagonist has outgrown their current situation. This song captures the essence of breaking free from emotional constraints and the painful yet necessary journey towards self-discovery and liberation.