Breathing

Yellowcard's song 'Breathing' delves into the complexities of a troubled relationship, where unspoken emotions and unresolved issues create a palpable tension. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is physically close to their partner but emotionally distant. The opening lines, 'Eyes are feeling heavy but they never seem to close / The fan blades on the ceiling spin but the air is never cold,' set a scene of restless nights and a sense of discomfort that permeates the relationship. Despite the physical proximity, the narrator feels an overwhelming sense of loneliness, unable to offer anything substantial to their partner.

The recurring motif of breathing serves as a powerful metaphor for the underlying tension and emotional weight that the narrator feels. 'And I can feel you breathing / And it's keeping me awake' suggests that the very presence of their partner is a constant reminder of the unresolved issues between them. The narrator's heart 'sinking like a weight' further emphasizes the emotional burden they carry, torn between the desire to stay and the urge to run away from the situation.

As the song progresses, the narrator reveals that they have been keeping something locked away, a truth that is slowly breaking free with each kiss. This hidden truth has filled them with doubt and uncertainty, making it difficult to navigate the relationship. The lines 'How am I supposed to feel about the things I've done? / I don't know if I should stay or turn around and run' encapsulate the internal conflict and guilt that the narrator experiences. Ultimately, 'Breathing' is a poignant exploration of the emotional turmoil that comes with unspoken truths and the struggle to reconcile with one's actions in a relationship.