This Song

The Stranglers' 'This Song' delves into the emotional journey of overcoming a past relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's attempt to compartmentalize and ultimately discard the lingering feelings for a former lover. By metaphorically placing these emotions in a box and sealing it with 'industry standard glue,' the song conveys a sense of finality and determination to move on. The imagery of a 'silent tomb' filled with photographs and memories further emphasizes the desire to bury the past and start anew.

The recurring refrain, 'This song will get me over you,' serves as both a mantra and a form of self-assurance. The protagonist acknowledges the pain and the reality that the former lover will never fulfill their desires. The act of creating and singing this song becomes a therapeutic process, a way to lift oneself out of the emotional mire and gain a new perspective. The song suggests that music itself can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.

The nautical imagery in the second verse, where the box is taken to 'uncharted seas' and sunk to the ocean floor, adds a layer of depth to the narrative. This act symbolizes a complete and irreversible separation from the past, with the protagonist trusting in 'Davy Jones’ locker' to keep the memories hidden away. The mention of banning deep-sea diving by law underscores the lengths to which the protagonist is willing to go to ensure these memories remain buried. The song concludes with a sense of resolve, as the protagonist appears to have successfully distanced themselves from the past, even if there's a hint of uncertainty in the final line, 'If that’s what I really wanna do.'