"Burn It" by Anabel Englund is a song that explores the struggles of letting go of a toxic relationship. The lyrics convey the feelings of being trapped and suffocated, symbolized by the metaphor of holding smoke in the lungs without dying. The freezing cold winter night represents the emotional emptiness and turmoil within. The line "Everything we said we can't take back, everything transparent" suggests a past filled with mistakes and regrets. The protagonist realizes that the person they are involved with is not good for them, yet they still find it difficult to break free. The reference to "your big head" implies that the other person is arrogant and self-centered. The chorus repeats the questions "How do you hold smoke in your lungs without dyin'? How do you know when to let go and stop tryin'?" These questions express the confusion and frustration of the protagonist, as they struggle to understand how the other person can continue holding on to something destructive without suffering the consequences. They also question when is the right time to let go and move on. The protagonist acknowledges that the other person is observing them "with your eyes, seeing me off one last time." This suggests that there have been previous attempts to end the relationship, but the protagonist keeps being drawn back in. They decide to swim far away, even though they still desire more, as they understand that staying in the toxic relationship is not beneficial. The line "I'll throw it in the fireplace, with all of my mistakes" signifies a willingness to let go of the past and move forward. The smell of gasoline represents the potential for danger and destruction that comes with holding onto this relationship. The protagonist declares that they are no longer willing to be controlled or treated as an object. The lyrics express a conflicted state of mind, as the protagonist admits to sometimes wanting to go back, despite knowing that the other person is bad for them. However, they ultimately determine that it's time to let go and move on. The song concludes with a plea for understanding, as the protagonist seeks answers to their questions, asking how to hold smoke in their lungs without dying and how to know when it's time to stop trying. The repetition emphasizes the struggle and the desire for guidance and clarity. Overall, "Burn It" conveys the emotional turmoil of holding onto a toxic relationship and the necessity of letting go in order to find happiness and peace.
