"Water Water" by Empress Of is a song that explores themes of vulnerability, self-doubt, and emotional disconnection in a relationship. The lyrics begin with repetitive laughter ("Ha, ha, ha, ha") that seems to mask deeper emotions. This laughter may symbolize a facade or a defense mechanism used to hide true feelings. The first verse juxtaposes water and wine (Vino Tinto) as contrasting substances. Water is typically associated with purity and cleansing, while wine represents indulgence and escaping reality. The artist expresses frustration when her partner becomes too intoxicated or caught up in their own world, neglecting their connection and existence in the present moment. She further reveals her anxiety and uneasiness through the mention of "simple silhouettes" that make her uneasy inside. This may suggest that the simplicity or superficiality of her partner's actions or demeanor make her feel unsettled. Despite her discomfort, she allows her partner to shape and manipulate her external facade, emphasizing her willingness to compromise for the sake of the relationship. In the second verse, the artist likens water to a privilege, paralleling it with the opportunity to receive higher education ("kids who go to college"). This suggests that water, a basic necessity, should be accessible to everyone, just like education. The reference to a ring around her partner's mouth where knowledge used to be whispered implies that their intellectual conversations have diminished or become shallow. She expresses longing for the things she misses about her partner when they are lost in their dreams or distractions. The desire to be taken along on their "trip" highlights her yearning to reconnect with them during moments of vulnerability or self-reflection. The repeated laughter throughout the song may also indicate the internal struggle of finding amusement in their partner's actions while quietly mourning the loss of a deeper connection. The chorus portrays the narrator's conflicting emotions towards their partner, who is described as "just a heart to hold" and "easy to impress." Although she acknowledges her desire to care more deeply, she confesses to feeling increasingly detached and less awake. The repetition of the line "But I'm feeling less and less" emphasizes her growing emotional disconnection and the diminishing impact the relationship has on her. Overall, "Water Water" conveys the artist's frustration and longing for a deeper emotional bond in a relationship marked by superficiality, emotional distance, and the loss of genuine connection.
