The Bitter End
Placebo - Sleeping With Ghosts (2003) Lyrics

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Since we're feeling so anesthetized
In our comfort zone
Reminds me of the second time
That I followed you home
We're running out of alibis
On the second of may
Reminds me of the summertime
On this winters day

See you at the bitter end
See you at the bitter end

Every step we took that synchronized
Every broken bone
Reminds me of the second time
That I followed you home
You showered me with lullabies
Had you walking away
Reminds me that its killing time
On this fateful day

See you at the bitter end
See you at the bitter end
See you at the bitter end
See you at the bitter end

From the time we intercepted
Feels a lot like suicide
Slow and sad, getting sadder
Arise a sitting mine (see you at the bitter end)

I love to see you run around
And I can see you now
Running to me
Arms wide out
See you at the bitter end
Reach inside
Come on just gotta reach inside
Heard your cry
Six months time

Six months time (see you at the bitter end)
Prepare the end

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Placebo's "The Bitter End" depict the self-destructive nature of a toxic relationship. The song begins by acknowledging the numbness that comes with residing within a safe haven. The singer feels they are running out of excuses and realizes that the situation reminds them of a time in the past that followed the same unfortunate path. As the relationship progressively takes its toll and leaves its mark, the singer still finds themselves gravitating towards their partner. The singer reminisces on a moment when their partner opened up to them, as if to win them over once more. However, the underlying feeling in the song depicts an awareness of the fact that this cycle of repeating patterns is destined for the bitter end.

The chorus's central message encourages the listener to be prepared for that inevitable conclusion. There will undoubtedly come a point where the relationship crumbles under the strain, and both parties will endure undue pain. The climax of the chorus is incredibly potent and straightforward, giving the listener permission to say goodbye prematurely. The line, "See you at the bitter end," is a poignant statement that symbolizes an acceptance of defeat in relationships that are destined to fail.

Line by Line Meaning

Since we're feeling so anesthetized
We are numb to reality

In our comfort zone
We find solace in our complacence

Reminds me of the second time
A recollection of a past event

That I followed you home
An action that was taken

We're running out of alibis
Excuses are wearing thin

On the second of may
A specific date in time

Reminds me of the summertime
A recollection of a past season

On this winters day
The current moment in time

See you at the bitter end
We will meet again in a negative situation

Every step we took that synchronized
Our actions were in harmony

Every broken bone
Physical injuries sustained