MEDUSA
Emma Ruth Rundle Lyrics

Medusa, nobody knows me like you
The singer addresses Medusa, a figure who is intimately familiar with them and perhaps their trauma. This could reflect on the dark and secretive thoughts that are concealed from others just like the parts of yourself one cannot see.

failing forgiveness for all of the things you see
Medusa holds judgement over the singer, incapable of generosity, she can only see the worst in them- refusing to grant any opportunities to learn from mistakes.

you say: "nobody ever will touch you again"
Medusa's judgment comes with a harsh reality: the likelihood of the singer's vulnerability being taken advantage of once more.

you say: "nobody ever will love you"
Medusa is effectively declaring that there will be no kindness or acceptance from the world for the artist. The lack of love initially received results in a crumbling within the person, leaving them deeply bitter and unhappy.

for your eyes need us to be made so white
Through judgment and critique, Medusa attempts to purify the world, whitewashing the flaws of those whom she deems as imperfect- neglecting the fact that these supposed 'flaws' fuel a motherly, rosy shade.

all my life: I'm nothing
The singer acknowledges the effects of Medusa's severe judgement, internalizing them to the point where they feel as if they are worthless- an effect of mental harm done to them.

Medusa, you come looking like Mother Teresa
The image of Mother Teresa, a saintly figure known for her dedication to service and helping others, is used to describe Medusa in this line. The comparison highlights the disconnect between the two- with the singer pointing out how Medusa's actions couldn't be more opposing to Mother Teresa's selflessness.

you come looking for daughters to please you
It is suggested that Medusa may be seeking validation through exerting power and control over other individuals, often hoping for them to make her feel fulfilled and satisfied.

you come blind
Despite her best efforts, Medusa is unable to see past her own narrow-minded approach and biases towards others.

Medusa, you want all of the world just to need you
Medusa is driven by her desire to be needed by everyone- her version of validation consists of feeling desired for the sake of her own ego.

you want everyone here just to see you
Medusa wishes for others to recognize and magnify her presence- she seeks attention from all those around her, regardless of the true cost behind it.

you make us blind
When we ourselves feel judged, criticised or ridiculed, it's easy to temporarily lose sight from reality and what is actually happening. It becomes easy to believe the lies being propagated, and that we are limited to the tormentor's perception.

you say: "nobody ever, ever will touch you again"
Medusa's warnings of the risks involved with being vulnerable become more intense, emphasising the potential consequences if her expressed advice remains unheeded.

you say: "nobody ever, ever will love you"
Medusa reinforces her relentless harshness, highlighting the possibility of isolation and loneliness that comes with a lack of love- and in this case it's a self-fulfilling prophecy.

you shot me down like you shot me down
The final line is a repetition that brings forth a sense of visual closure. It alludes to the idea of feeling pushed down and out of control- echoes of an abusive relationship. The fact that they are addressed to Medusa emphasizes who is responsible for perpetuating such issues.