Paper Thin
Inmates Lyrics

The song "Paper Thin" by Inmates has an intriguing set of lyrics that can be interpreted in different ways. It talks about relying on the persona of someone who may have a "paper thin soul," an individual who is emotionally fragile, and masking their own problems. The singer admits to needing help to shed their personal troubles and relying on someone else's advice. However, this dependency on others' advice may come at a cost, and the singer may be suppressing their emotional turmoil. The chorus emphasizes this concept, saying "You got a paper-thin soul" repeatedly. It could mean the person is vulnerable, and their soul is frail, but it is also about the singer's ability to hide behind someone else and their mask.

The lyrics also convey the idea of someone manipulating the singer. The lines, "I'll take direction from your paper soul," and, "I come upon the history of your greatest bombs," convey that the person the singer depends on may not have their best interests at heart. The reference to "swing set blues" could also imply being trapped in unhealthy patterns with this individual. Nevertheless, the singer finds solace in this relationship because they finally feel free to fly despite the conditions set by their guide.

The contrast between the dependency on someone and the singer's newfound ability to fly showcases a powerful message in the song. It could mean that shedding one's traumas and finding strength within themselves is the only way to move forward despite circumstances. It also delves into the idea that trust and dependency on someone can be both beneficial and harmful. Overall, the lyrics create a picture of the complexity of relationships and how an individual's emotional state is always present, even when they try to conceal it.