"Skin" by Grimes is a song that explores the complicated emotions and vulnerabilities associated with human connections. The lyrics suggest that the speaker, who may have been hurt in the past, has found someone who makes them feel alive and human again. The mention of "soft skin" symbolizes the physical and emotional intimacy between the speaker and this person. The song hints at a situation where the person the speaker is close to is about to leave or end the relationship, causing the speaker a great deal of pain and longing. The line "I hate that you're leaving, so why don't you talk to me?" expresses the speaker's frustration and confusion, as they haven't been able to fully understand or communicate with the person who holds significance in their life. The repeated refrain of "And you can't and you can't see" highlights the limitations of perception and understanding in relationships. The speaker feels as though the other person cannot fully comprehend or appreciate the depth of their emotions or the weight of their connection. The song conveys a sense of longing and loss, as the speaker desperately seeks an explanation or understanding for the fading relationship. They express their desire for the other person to be close to their heart, as it is where they feel their most authentic self. The phrase "You were never a lie to begin with" suggests that the speaker believed in the genuineness of the connection, making their current suffering even more painful. Overall, "Skin" by Grimes delves into the complexities of human emotions, the desire for connection, and the pain of potential loss when that connection is threatened or severed.
