"Paper And Glue" by Emma Pollock is a song that reflects on the constant pursuit of success and happiness in life. The lyrics depict a scene where the singer observes people rushing about, busy with their lives and seemingly more accomplished than her. The chorus of the song emphasizes the disparity between the singer's own aspirations and the reality she faces. She yearns for a dream she has had for a year, but it seems unattainable and everything appears stagnant and repetitive. The view seems appealing, but ultimately lacks substance. The second verse delves into the destruction of a familiar place, symbolized by the trees being cut down. The singer questions what can be done to prevent this destruction, suggesting a desire to make a difference. She proposes the idea of standing together in a circle, paying tribute with paper and glue, signifying an attempt to restore and protect what has been lost. The bridge of the song suggests a disillusionment with the idea of heaven and the forgiveness of past mistakes. The singer feels condemned for her past actions and finds solace in staring at a person from a distance, unable to express what she truly feels anymore. The song concludes with the realization that the singer has been in similar situations before, witnessing the chaos and destruction, with no escape. It conveys a sense of hopelessness and resignation, emphasizing that no matter where she goes, she cannot escape the cycle of destruction and the consequences of her actions. Overall, "Paper And Glue" explores themes of disillusionment, the pursuit of dreams, and the consequences of past actions. It reflects on the challenges of finding personal fulfillment and the feeling of being caught in a repetitive cycle, unable to break free.
