Chained
The xx Lyrics

In the first verse of The xx's song Chained, the singer watches the person they care for breathe and wishes they would stop, even if only momentarily. The reason for this wish is not directly stated, but it could be interpreted in various ways. It could be seen as a longing for stillness or intimacy, or as a fear of losing the person. Following this contemplation, the singer asks if they should "Separate or combine," posing a question about the nature of their relationship. They then inquire if they were too restrictive or if they failed to provide enough "light" or freedom, suggesting a potential cause for any distance or tension that may exist.

As the song progresses, the chorus repeats the phrase "We used to be closer than this" four times, indicating the presence of changes or distance in the relationship. The singer wonders if there is something they missed or if there is someone or something else that stands between them. This section creates a sense of melancholy and a desire to reconnect or understand what actions or events led to a shift in their closeness.

The final verse poses the question of whether the person they care for feels "Winged or chained," once again alluding to the possibility of restriction or lack of freedom. The singer asks if the person wishes they had stayed, reflecting the fear of abandonment, and wonders if they were too controlling or failed to provide enough space for growth. The repetition of the "oooh" sounds at the end creates a sense of longing and unanswered questions, leaving the listener to contemplate the various interpretations of the lyrics.