Meaning of Feather Weight by SZA

In SZA's hauntingly beautiful song, "Feather Weight," the artist explores themes of longing, disappointment, and addiction within the context of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics paint a picture of emotional vulnerability and the deep desire to be seen, wanted, and understood. The overall theme of the song revolves around the complexities of love and the lengths one may go to for the object of their affection.One standout lyric in the song is, "Little lamb of God, don't save this photograph." This line speaks to a sense of desperation and resignation. It suggests a desire to let go of the past and move forward, but also a fear of losing the memory or the remnants of a relationship. It hints at the fear of letting go and the difficulty of relinquishing control.Another powerful lyric comes in the lines, "Give me a bad habit, maybe cigarettes or heroin. Give me a ritual, Hansel and Gretel, bread crumbs to where I've been." These words delve into the theme of addiction and self-destructive tendencies. They suggest that the speaker is willing to succumb to harmful habits or behaviors just to feel a sense of connection or escapism from the pain of their longing. The reference to Hansel and Gretel alludes to the act of leaving breadcrumbs as a way to find one's way back, symbolizing the search for meaning or a way to navigate through the trials and tribulations of love.The chorus of the song also reinforces the themes of longing and unrequited love. The repetition of the lines, "It took you too long, I've never waited for anyone as long as I've waited for you, for you," emphasizes the extent to which the speaker has invested in this relationship. It highlights the immense significance this person holds in their life and the deep yearning they feel for their love to be reciprocated. Through the repetition, SZA creates a sense of longing, almost as if time has stood still for the narrator waiting for their love interest.The imagery throughout the song, particularly in the line, "I'm pretty sure I'm over the hill with it, feel like I'm no less than up to my head in it," portrays a sense of being overwhelmed and drowning in emotions. The speaker feels trapped in their feelings, unable to escape or find resolution. The reference to being "over the hill" suggests that they have reached a breaking point, possibly alluding to the exhaustion and disappointment that has accumulated over time.Overall, "Feather Weight" is a deeply introspective song that reflects the complexities of love and the vulnerability we experience when we open ourselves up to another person. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the emotional turbulence one can go through while waiting for love, including the desire to escape through addiction or harmful habits. Through the use of evocative imagery and powerful metaphors, SZA crafts a poignant exploration of human emotions and the lengths we are willing to go to for love and connection.