This Isn't Helping (feat. Phoebe Bridgers)

The National's song 'This Isn't Helping (feat. Phoebe Bridgers)' delves into the complexities of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is deeply affected by their feelings for another person, who seems oblivious to the depth of their emotions. The opening lines highlight the disparity between the two individuals, with one finding beauty in everything, even in the most unlikely places, while the other struggles to keep their emotions in check. This contrast sets the stage for the recurring theme of imbalance in their relationship.

The chorus, 'This isn't helping at all, it only makes me wanna get further off,' underscores the frustration and helplessness felt by the narrator. Despite the other person's attempts to be kind or supportive, their actions only exacerbate the narrator's pain. This sentiment is further emphasized in the lines, 'You can say that this doesn't have to hurt, you're there if you need to be found, can't you see that that makes it so much worse?' The narrator feels trapped in a cycle of emotional pain, unable to escape the constant reminders of their unreciprocated feelings.

Phoebe Bridgers' contribution to the song adds another layer of depth, as her voice complements the melancholic tone of the lyrics. The interplay between the two voices creates a sense of dialogue, reflecting the internal conflict and the struggle to communicate their true feelings. The song's conclusion, with the repeated refrain 'This isn't helping at all,' leaves the listener with a sense of unresolved tension, mirroring the ongoing emotional struggle faced by the narrator. The National and Phoebe Bridgers have crafted a poignant and relatable exploration of the pain of unrequited love, capturing the essence of longing and heartache in a beautifully haunting melody.