Keep Me
From Indian Lakes Lyrics

The lyrics to "Keep Me in" by From Indian Lakes convey a deep sense of longing and introspection, primarily centered on the complexities of connection and emotional vulnerability within a relationship. The opening lines set a contemplative tone, with the singer expressing a desire for their partner to embody something they never had. This signifies a yearning for healing and completion, suggesting that the singer sees their partner as someone capable of filling emotional voids created by past experiences. The imagery of light filtering through shades evokes a sense of hope and warmth, illustrating how the presence of this person brings positivity into the singer's life. However, the reference to impermanence hints at a recognition that all beautiful moments are fleeting, raising a sense of urgency about the nature of their connection.

As the chorus unfolds, there is a palpable push and pull within the relationship. The phrase "Keep me closer" suggests a desire for intimacy and a rejection of distance, underscoring the need to maintain a connection amidst the fading moments described earlier. The lines "I'm coming in / Too far along your eye" further emphasize the intimate exploration of the partner's inner world, hinting at a deep emotional or even spiritual connection that transcends physical interactions. Yet, this experience of closeness carries with it an undeniable weight; the feeling of growing older together implies a shared journey that is burdened by time, change, and possibly the inescapable realities of life outside their private universe.

The second verse introduces a more somber reflection on the challenges of maintaining this closeness. The imagery of keeping one’s "other body in a bed of glass" speaks to fragility and vulnerability—suggesting that there are parts of the partner that are delicate and perhaps guarded. This extends to the metaphorical act of "holding up your mouth," indicating a struggle to communicate authentically or openly, which ultimately leads to a sense of impermanence in emotional exchanges. The line about once being a “shell floating in your bay” encapsulates a feeling of disconnection and aimlessness, indicating that the singer once felt passive or insignificant in the relationship. The warmth of the water gradually creeping into their brain can be viewed as a transformative experience; it reflects how emotions and experiences seep into one's consciousness, challenging earlier states of numbness.

Overall, "Keep Me in" delves into the intricate dynamics of love and the bittersweet realization that every moment shared is precious yet transient. The dual themes of closeness and distance are woven throughout the song, illustrating the ongoing tension between yearning for connection and grappling with the fragility of that bond in the face of life's inevitable changes. The repetition of the chorus underscores this emotional struggle, serving as a reminder of the singer's desire to remain integrated within that intimate space, even as they confront the reality of growing older and the complexities that come with it. This reflective piece captures both the beauty and the pain of intimate relationships, inviting listeners to ponder their own experiences with love, loss, and the pursuit of connection.