Meaning of Bananafishbones by The Cure

The Cure's song titled 'Bananafishbones' is a complex composition that delves into various intriguing themes and concepts. Overall, the song explores the twisting and tumultuous nature of human emotion and the ways in which we navigate our lives, often making choices that may seem strange or unconventional to others. It is a deep dive into the complexities of the human psyche, with the bananafish bones acting as a metaphorical representation of our desires, anxieties, and coping mechanisms.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Curl into a ball like you have more fun." This lyric, although seemingly whimsical, actually touches upon the theme of escapism. It suggests that sometimes we retreat into ourselves to find solace or a sense of enjoyment, even if it may appear unnatural or peculiar to the outside world. This generates a thought-provoking notion that our individual experiences and perceptions may not always align with societal expectations.Similarly, the lyric "Don't fight, go red and blue and black and white" delves into the theme of inner conflict. It highlights the internal battles we face when confronted with contrasting emotions or situations. The colors mentioned symbolize the spectrum of emotions we experience, from passion ('red') to sadness ('blue') to dark thoughts ('black') and purity ('white'). This lyric reminds us that exploring and embracing the full range of our emotions allows us to better understand ourselves and ultimately find inner peace.The song takes an unexpected turn with the lyric "A palace of stones of your bananafish bones, I'll buy you a hundred years old." This line touches on the theme of preservation and nostalgia. Here, the bananafish bones represent not only our fragile dreams and aspirations but also the memories and experiences that shape us. The mention of a palace of stones suggests the desire to immortalize these moments, to hold onto them forever. This theme speaks to the innate human need to capture and preserve the beauty and significance we find in our own lives.Moving forward, the lyric "Exploit, inspire, encourage, be responsible for this, ha ha" brings about the theme of self-discovery and empowerment. It urges us to take charge of our own destinies, to embrace the power within ourselves to inspire and encourage others. The use of the word "exploit" in this context is not meant negatively but rather suggests tapping into our inner potential and making the most of it. This lyric serves as a reminder that we possess the ability to shape our lives and the lives of those around us.The recurring chorus, "I don't think, I don't think, I make use of all this time, oh, kill me, kiss me once, and then we'll throw it away" explores the theme of existentialism and the urgent desire to live fully. It speaks to the fleeting nature of time and the notion that we must seize each moment without hesitation. The contradictory statement of "kill me, kiss me once" encapsulates the paradoxical nature of life, where pleasure and pain often go hand in hand. This lyric encourages us to embrace both the joy and suffering that life brings, reminding us that every experience is valuable, even if temporary.Lastly, the song concludes with the line "And tell me about the games you play, oh, turn off the lights." This lyric touches upon the theme of vulnerability and the importance of opening up to others. It suggests that true connections and understanding can only be achieved through honest and genuine conversations. The act of turning off the lights symbolizes shedding pretenses and allowing oneself to be truly seen in the darkness of vulnerability.Overall, The Cure's 'Bananafishbones' is a multi-layered song that explores various themes including escapism, inner conflict, preservation, self-discovery, existentialism, and vulnerability. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song invites listeners to reflect on and embrace the complexities of the human experience. It serves as a reminder that the paths we choose may not always align with societal norms, but it is through these unconventional choices that we uncover the true essence of who we are.