"Close Enough to Kill" by Emily Browning is a haunting and introspective song that explores themes of vulnerability, control, and the toxic nature of a destructive relationship. The lyrics suggest that the narrator has allowed someone to enter their life and deeply affect them, even though they are unsure if they can handle the consequences. The song begins with the narrator expressing uncertainty about whether they can hold onto their former self, as they feel their identity slipping away due to the influence of this person. The line "Coil around me, it's all yours" implies that they have surrendered themselves entirely to this individual. The chorus reveals that the other person is taking more from the narrator than they can give. It implies that the relationship is unbalanced and that the narrator feels drained or depleted due to the demands placed upon them. This person has taken more than just their physical presence, but also their emotional well-being. The lyrics convey a sense of danger and foreboding, with lines like "Close enough to fall and die" and "Keep me close enough to kill." The narrator feels trapped and entangled in this toxic relationship, explaining that there is an emptiness and a hole inside them. They acknowledge that the other person treats their body as if it belongs to them, leaving marks that constantly remind the narrator of their presence. Throughout the song, there is a feeling of surrender and sacrifice. The narrator acknowledges that this person has entered their world and taken everything, teaching them how to crawl in the process. They crave stillness and steadiness, but also recognize the heavy toll it takes to try and fill the void left by this relationship. In the end, the chorus repeats, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the situation. The narrator acknowledges that the other person came into their life, taking more than they could give and leaving them with the burden of trying to continue living despite the damage inflicted. Overall, "Close Enough to Kill" explores the destructive and manipulative dynamics of a relationship, shedding light on the emotional toll it can take on an individual. Its lyrics capture the complexity of feeling simultaneously entranced and trapped by someone who has a detrimental impact on one's well-being.
