Count Backwards
Emika Lyrics

The lyrics of Emika's song "Count Backwards" explore the complexities of communication and the difficulty of truly understanding another person's thoughts and emotions. The opening lines, "Same room, give me a penny for your thoughts, I've got none" set the tone for the song's mood of frustration and longing. It is clear that these two people are in the same space, but their minds are elsewhere, and they struggle to connect with one another. The repeated refrain "Well if you won't calm down, count backwards" suggests that one person is trying to help the other find a sense of inner peace, but the attempt is unsuccessful. Even counting backwards doesn't seem to bring solace - "the numbers never count for one."

The lyrics also hint at a deeper conflict or tension between the two people - "I plan on turning back, but I can't say no / I was leaving from the start." It seems that there is a sense of inevitability to their relationship, perhaps a suggestion that they are not right for each other but cannot help being drawn together. The final verse, "When you lie in your bed / And the rumors won't set you free / I'll count for one" reinforces this idea of being trapped - this person is stuck with their own thoughts and unable to escape, but the other person is willing to stay with them and offer comfort.

Overall, the lyrics of "Count Backwards" depict a difficult and fraught relationship, in which communication is difficult and inner turmoil abounds. The repeated instruction to "count backwards" suggests a need for calm and order amidst the chaos, but even this simple exercise is not enough to bring peace.