Glass Candle Grenades
Cocteau Twins Lyrics
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Obscure as we are, there's only our hair's breadth between us
There's only our hair's breadth between us, as sure as we be
As sure as we be, there's only our hair's breadth between us
Glass sandstorms
(still we'll not keel over, keel over, keel over)
Glass candle
(still we'll not keel over, keel over, keel over)
Grenades are popping
(still we'll not keel over, keel over, keel over)
(repeat)
The opening lyrics of Cocteau Twins' "Glass Candle Grenades" suggest that despite how obscure and enigmatic both the singer and the listener might be, there is only a small distance between them. The use of the phrase "hair's breadth" suggests a closeness, yet at the same time, it acknowledges the fragility and delicateness of that proximity. The repetition of this line twice emphasizes this notion, as if to hammer home the sense of intimacy that exists between the two.
As the song evolves, we are introduced to the image of "glass sandstorms" and "glass candles," both of which are indicative of delicate and fragile objects. These images are juxtaposed with the concept of "grenades popping," which suggests sudden violence and fragmentation. The repetition of the phrase "still we'll not keel over" suggests a determination to overcome obstacles, no matter how daunting they may seem. Taken together, these images suggest a song that is wrestling with the idea of the delicate balance between intimacy and violence, and the ways in which barriers can be overcome through sheer force of will.
Overall, "Glass Candle Grenades" is a song that explores the fragility of human connections, while also acknowledging the strength and resilience that is required to maintain those connections in the face of so much uncertainty and chaos.
Line by Line Meaning
There's only our hair's breadth between us, obscure as we are
Even though we are not well-known or recognized, we are intimately close to each other.
Obscure as we are, there's only our hair's breadth between us
Despite being relatively unknown, our connection is incredibly close.
There's only our hair's breadth between us, as sure as we be
We are certain of our intimate connection, even though it seems fragile.
As sure as we be, there's only our hair's breadth between us
We are confident in our connection, despite how tenuous it may seem.
Glass sandstorms (still we'll not keel over, keel over, keel over)
Even when surrounded by difficult and tumultuous circumstances, we will not falter or give up.
Glass candle (still we'll not keel over, keel over, keel over)
Our light may seem fragile and vulnerable, but we will not surrender or succumb to darkness.
Grenades are popping (still we'll not keel over, keel over, keel over)
Even when faced with explosive and dangerous situations, we will remain resilient and steadfast.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: ELIZABETH FRASER, ROBIN A. GUTHRIE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind