Surgeon
St. Vincent Lyrics

The lyrics of St. Vincent's "Surgeon" can be interpreted in a few different ways, as is often the case with abstract, poetic songwriting. However, one possible interpretation is that the song is about feeling emotionally stuck or blocked, and longing for someone to help break through that blockage.

The first verse describes the singer lying on her back, paralyzed by some kind of attack or distress. She stays in bed and tries to "get along" using whatever means necessary, including turning off the TV and taking some kind of drug ("a blue and a red"). This suggests that the singer is struggling with some kind of emotional or psychological issue - perhaps anxiety or depression - and is trying to cope. However, she still feels trapped and stuck.

The second verse introduces the idea of a surgeon who can "cut me open," suggesting that the singer needs someone else to help her break through whatever is blocking her. However, this surgeon is described as the "best, finest" - a somewhat ominous phrase that could suggest that the "surgery" will be painful or dangerous. The final lines of the song repeat this idea over and over, emphasizing the singer's desperation to be cut open and released.

Overall, "Surgeon" creates a sense of tension and ambiguity. The singer is clearly struggling with some kind of emotional issue, but it's left up to the listener to decide what that might be. The repeated refrain of "best, finest surgeon" is both haunting and intriguing - suggesting the possibility of redemption, but also the fear of the unknown.