Meaning of Wings by SZA

The SZA song 'Wings' explores various themes of desire, vulnerability, and the wide range of emotions experienced in a complex relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing, surrender, and the power dynamics that exist between two individuals. As we delve into the standout lyrics of the song, we can discover unexpected and imaginative themes that add depth to the overall meaning.In the first verse, SZA sings, "Wouldn't you like to believe, I'm on the edge, I feel your palms on my back, You're murderous, you're murderous." These lyrics evoke a sense of surrender and vulnerability. The notion of being on the edge implies a precarious emotional state, while the touch of palms on one's back represents both comfort and control. The unexpected theme here is the allure of danger, as the desire to believe in this precarious state is juxtaposed with the ominous quality of someone being described as "murderous." This lyric explores the complex nature of attraction, where an individual can be drawn to someone dangerous or emotionally volatile.The refrain, "Swept and I fall, euphoria, Breeze in my eyes, Wake me when it's over, Wake me when it's over," further amplifies the theme of surrender. The reference to being swept off one's feet suggests a complete loss of control, an immersive experience that plunges one into euphoria. However, the follow-up line, "Wake me when it's over," hints at a desire to detach from this intense emotional state once it becomes overwhelming. The contrast between intense pleasure and the need for release suggests a longing for both passion and stability.The pre-chorus lyrics, "So painless, I feel the fall, Power trip, I need it all, I need it all," introduce another unexpected theme. Here, the notion of painlessness is juxtaposed with a desire for a power trip. While normally one would associate pain with negative experiences, SZA challenges that expectation by suggesting that pain can be pleasurable and empowering. This theme explores the complexity of desire and the allure of indulging in intense experiences for the sake of feeling alive."When you're around, I feel it, When I'm alone, I feel the waves, Crashing down, down," is a standout chorus that embodies the overall theme of the song. It emphasizes the significance of the other person's presence and the emotional impact they have. The unexpected theme underlying these lyrics is the idea that personal identity is shaped by the presence or absence of someone else. When the person is around, the feeling is intense and overwhelming, like crashing waves. However, when they're not there, there is a profound sense of emptiness and longing. This theme explores the dichotomy of being both fulfilled and lost in the presence of a significant other.The bridge lyrics, "In the horizon, I see your face, I doubt you live when you say, How could you need me?" introduce a theme of uncertainty and self-doubt. The horizon represents a future perspective, and seeing the other person's face on the horizon reveals a yearning for a future together. However, the doubt expressed suggests insecurity about the authenticity of the other person's feelings. This theme examines the insecurities that can arise in a relationship and questions the depth of the connection.The multiple themes that emerge from 'Wings' illustrate the emotional complexities inherent in relationships. The song explores the allure of danger, the desire for surrender, the juxtaposition of pleasure and pain, the dependency on another, and the insecurities that arise when vulnerable. SZA's lyrics create a rich and imaginative narrative that resonates with listeners, allowing them to reflect on their own experiences of love and connection. Ultimately, 'Wings' reminds us that relationships are not simple, but rather a tapestry of emotions, desires, and uncertainties.