Meaning of Jigsaw Feeling by Siouxsie and the Banshees

Siouxsie and the Banshees' song "Jigsaw Feeling" is a captivating piece that delves into the complexities of human emotions and the struggles with self-perception. The overall theme of the song revolves around the perplexing puzzle of one's own feelings and the way they can leave individuals feeling disoriented and disconnected from themselves and others. Through its enigmatic lyrics, the song explores various aspects of this theme, resurrecting unexpected and imaginative themes that ultimately contribute to the deeper meaning.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "One day I'm feeling total, the next I'm split in two." This line conveys the fragility of emotions and the unpredictable nature of our internal landscape. It delves into the theme of emotional instability and the constant oscillation between highs and lows. The lyrics suggest that one's emotional state can shift dramatically, leaving them feeling fractured and disorganized. This theme connects to the overarching notion of the jigsaw feeling, where pieces of identity don't seem to fit together.Another significant line that contributes to the song's thematic exploration is "My brain is out of my hand, there's nothing to prevent, the impulse is quite meaningless in a cerebral nonevent." This particular verse delves into the conflict between the rational mind and the unpredictable whims of emotions. It highlights the disconnect between what the mind knows to be logical and the instinctive pull of feelings, which can sometimes defy reason. This lyric touches upon the theme of internal struggle and the confusion that arises from the battle between mind and heart.In the line "Five fingers do my walking, ten toes unravel 'Knots', amorphous jigsaw pieces falling into slots," the lyrics evoke a sense of surrealism and abstraction. This verse conveys the notion of finding solace or trying to make sense of one's emotional state by engaging in physical or sensory experiences. It hints at the idea that perhaps physical sensations can somehow bridge the fragmented pieces of one's emotions. This interpretation introduces the theme of seeking external stimuli as a way to mend the disjointed self.The line "So I just sit in reverie, getting on my nerves, the intangible bonds that keep me sitting on the verge of a breakdown" delves into the theme of introspection and the instability it can create. It portrays the act of introspection as a double-edged sword, potentially leading to self-doubt and an increased sense of vulnerability. The lyrics suggest that the intangible bonds, likely referring to one's thoughts and introspections, can both hold individuals together and push them to the brink of unraveling. This theme touches on the notion that self-reflection can be both enlightening and unsettling.In the outro of the song, the repeated phrase "can't beat me, complete me, maybe defeat me, defeat me, jigsaw feeling" brings the themes of the song full circle. It portrays the struggle with self-understanding and the recognition that perhaps the puzzle of emotions can't ever be fully solved. The lyric conveys a sense of acceptance and resignation, acknowledging that the fragmented nature of emotions can both empower and defeat.Siouxsie and the Banshees' "Jigsaw Feeling" is a captivating exploration of the complexities of emotions and the struggle to understand oneself. Through its evocative lyrics, the song delves into themes of emotional instability, the conflict between reason and instinct, seeking solace in sensory experiences, the consequence of introspection, and the acceptance of the enigma of human emotions. Ultimately, the song invites listeners to embrace and navigate the intricate jigsaw of feelings and find solace in the recognition that there is beauty in the puzzle.