Meaning of Close To Me [paris] by The Cure

The Cure's iconic song "Close To Me [paris]" is a musical masterpiece that delves into the complex emotions of longing, vulnerability, and the delicate balance between safety and uncertainty. The overarching theme of the song revolves around the desire for connection and the fear of intimacy.One standout lyric that contributes to the development of these themes is "I've waited hours for this, I've made myself so sick." This lyric captures the intense anticipation and anxiety that often comes with being close to someone. It highlights the vulnerability of longing for a certain outcome, yet fearing that it may not live up to expectations. The theme of anticipation is further explored through the lyrics, "Just try to see in the dark, just try to make it work." This suggests the struggle and uncertainty that come with navigating a relationship, where one is constantly trying to decipher the other person's intentions and make the connection work.Another significant lyric is "I make the shapes come much too close, I pull my eyes out, hold my breath and wait until I shake." This powerful imagery reinforces the theme of vulnerability, but also introduces the idea of self-sabotage. The narrator admits to pushing the boundaries and making things uncomfortably close, displaying a fear of truly allowing oneself to be seen. This theme of self-sabotage ties into the overarching fear of intimacy and the struggle to trust and let others in.The chorus lyric, "But if I had your faith, then I could make it safe and clean," introduces the theme of trust and the longing for a sense of security within a relationship. It suggests that having faith in the other person would alleviate the fear and uncertainty, allowing for a harmonious connection. However, the lyric also implies a lack of trust within oneself, as the narrator questions whether their own perceptions of reality can be trusted. This introduces an intriguing theme of self-doubt and internal conflicts that can often hinder the formation of deep connections with others.The repeated line, "Oh, if only I was sure, that my head on the door was a dream," serves as the climax of the song, encapsulating the underlying themes of uncertainty and longing for an escape from emotional turmoil. The symbol of the door represents the boundary between the inner and outer worlds, and the desire for the narrator to break free from their emotional confinement. This lyric further emphasizes the theme of wanting to distance oneself emotionally while still yearning for connection.In a broader sense, "Close To Me [paris]" can also be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition. It explores the universal desire for connection, while acknowledging the inherent challenges and fears that come with it. The song captures the complexities of relationships, the internal struggles that hinder vulnerability, and the indescribable longing for a deep emotional connection.In conclusion, The Cure's "Close To Me [paris]" intricately weaves together themes of vulnerability, anticipation, self-sabotage, trust, and longing for an escape. The rich, evocative lyrics and haunting melody create a profound exploration of the human experience. Through the lens of this timeless song, listeners are invited to reflect on their own emotions and the delicate dance between intimacy and self-protection.