Meaning of Circle by Mitski

The song 'Circle' by Mitski explores themes of betrayal, regret, and the consequences of our actions. Through its poignant lyrics, Mitski paints a vivid picture of a complex relationship full of secrets and the emotional toll it takes on both parties involved.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "There's a lie that I told to you, that now I can't tell the truth." This lyric speaks to the fragile nature of trust within a relationship. It highlights the burden of keeping a secret and the inner conflict it creates. This theme can be expanded upon to explore the concept of vulnerability and the fear of exposing one's true self to others.Another important lyric in the song is "I slept with a man you knew." This lyric delves into the realm of infidelity and its consequences. It raises questions about loyalty, honesty, and the destruction that can result from a breach of trust. Expanding on this theme, one can explore the idea of forgiveness and whether it is possible to repair a relationship after such a betrayal.The lyric "And the businessmen saw my bones, with my skirt in their eyes" presents an interesting visual image. It suggests objectification and the loss of personal agency. This can be tied to the overarching theme of the song by exploring the power dynamics within relationships and the ways in which one's actions can lead to a loss of autonomy."You were happy to have me, but I never gave me away" is another lyric that delves into the concept of self-preservation. It speaks to the idea of protecting oneself emotionally, even within the confines of a relationship. This theme can be further explored by discussing the fear of vulnerability and the desire to maintain a sense of independence."I would give you my heart, but it's up in a branch of a tree" is a lyric that introduces an element of longing and unrequited love. The image of the heart being out of reach can be interpreted as a metaphor for unfulfilled desires and the pain that comes with it. This theme can be expanded to discuss the complexities of love and how it can often lead to heartache."We forgot, and we left for home, and that was so long ago, now the tree it has grown" is a lyric that speaks to the passage of time and the lasting impact of our actions. It suggests that even though we may try to move on from our mistakes, their effects remain. This theme can be explored by discussing the concept of regret and how it shapes our future choices.The repeated refrain "And nobody knows my lover is buried underground" highlights the theme of secrecy and the desire to keep certain aspects of our lives hidden. It suggests a sense of shame and the fear of judgment. This theme can be further developed by exploring the concept of societal expectations and how they influence our behavior.In conclusion, 'Circle' by Mitski is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves deep into the complexities of human relationships. Through its evocative lyrics, it explores themes of betrayal, regret, vulnerability, and the consequences of our actions. By delving into unexpected and imaginative themes tied to each standout lyric, the song serves as a powerful reflection on the intricacies of love and the lasting impact of our choices.