Lily

The Dodos' song 'Lily' delves into the complexities of a strained relationship, exploring themes of love, regret, and the inexorable passage of time. The lyrics open with a reflective tone, as the narrator questions how the relationship has deteriorated to its current state. The metaphor of 'subtracting' suggests a desire to simplify or remove the negative aspects that have accumulated over time. The imagery of light and darkness—'You are lit, but behind I see black'—highlights the contrast between the outward appearance of the relationship and the underlying issues that plague it.

The recurring line 'It's time against your back' serves as a poignant reminder of the relentless march of time, which adds pressure and urgency to the situation. This line encapsulates the feeling of being chased by time, unable to escape its effects. The narrator's efforts to 'dry erase this board' and 'head for shore' symbolize attempts to start anew and find stability. However, the advice to 'not look back' suggests that dwelling on the past is futile and that moving forward is the only viable option.

As the song progresses, the tone shifts to a more confrontational and raw expression of emotions. The narrator's frustration is palpable in lines like 'You won't speak, when you do you still don't' and 'I've been due, you're a bitch, you're a whore.' Despite these harsh words, the declaration 'I will love you forevermore' reveals a deep, albeit conflicted, sense of attachment. The final lines, 'Let's begin, let us love to destroy,' encapsulate the paradox of their relationship—an intense love that is both creative and destructive, all while time remains an ever-present force against them.