The group takes its name from Shakespeare. In particular Hamlet's soliloquy To be, or not to be, where it refers to dying; "coil" is used in its archaic sense of "disturbance, trouble":
"What dreams may come, when we have shuffled off this mortal coil, must give us pause."
Hamlet, Act III, Scene 1, line 67.
Waves Become Wings
This Mortal Coil Lyrics
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Please stay, stay
Stay a while
Mystery lights keep the dark inside
Evading glances when the light's applied
Stay and run unto me
Sail to me
Come to me
The lyrics to This Mortal Coil's "Waves Become Wings" convey a sense of longing and desire for someone to stay and not leave, even if just for a little while longer. The plea to "stay a while" is an attempt to keep the mystery lights that keep the dark inside at bay. The evading glances when the light's applied may refer to a fear of vulnerability or a desire to keep something hidden. The repetition of "please stay" further emphasizes the urgency of the request. The phrases "run unto me" and "sail to me" suggest that the person being addressed is coming from a great distance and that the singer wants them to make an effort to be together. "Come to me" is the final plea, underscoring the depth of longing and the desire for connection.
Line by Line Meaning
Please stay, stay
I am asking you to remain in my presence and not leave.
Please stay, stay
I am begging you to stay with me and not depart.
Stay a while
I am requesting that you remain in this place or with me for an extended period of time.
Mystery lights keep the dark inside
The enigmatic illuminations serve to conceal the inner darkness.
Evading glances when the light's applied
Avoiding looks when exposed to the radiance.
Stay and run unto me
Stay with me and come rushing towards me.
Sail to me
Travel towards me by means of navigation on the water.
Come to me
Make your way towards me and join me.
Contributed by Natalie W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.