The song "Skeleton" by Gabrielle Aplin explores themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and feeling insignificant in a relationship. The lyrics delve into the emotions and thoughts of the protagonist who has been hurt by someone they loved. In the first verse, the protagonist asks the person they are addressing what they just said, indicating surprise or disbelief. They mention that they heard them correctly the first time and question whether the person intends to hurt them. The protagonist believes that the person should have lied instead of speaking an unkind truth. The protagonist continues to express that it feels like they can see right through the person, as if they have lost their true essence. They mention that the person is acting as though their actions and the end of their relationship do not matter, and as if the protagonist themselves do not matter. In the chorus, the protagonist reflects on the past, mentioning the intensity and passion they once shared with the person. They express disappointment that the person has given up on their love and is now acting as though it doesn't matter. The second verse sees the protagonist stating that they are not going to fight or try to win the person back. They don't know where to begin anymore and don't want to go through the pain and heartbreak again. The bridge of the song addresses the consequences the person will face for their actions. It mentions that they will go to a place where they will fall and be hurt, and that they will transfer the love they once had for the protagonist to someone else. In the final part of the song, the protagonist asserts that there is nothing left of their relationship and that it won't work. They reiterate that the person is acting as if none of it matters, and that they themselves don't matter. Overall, "Skeleton" portrays the feelings of betrayal and insignificance that arise from a broken relationship. The protagonist is confronted with the painful reality of their lost love and how the person they once knew has changed.
