"One Hundred" by Hands Like Houses is a song that touches on the theme of repressed emotions and the fear of expressing one's true feelings. The lyrics depict the struggle of two individuals, referred to as "baby" and "honey," as they try to keep their emotions hidden and their hearts still. The song begins with the plea to "hold your breath" and "make our hearts sit still," indicating a need to suppress their emotions. The line "hold your tongue" further emphasizes the need for silence and suppression of their thoughts. The lyrics then describe the physical effects of bottling up emotions, with phrases like "my skin is so tight around my chest" and "my heart is leaping out." The protagonist acknowledges that their imagination is running wild, playing like a movie in their eyes, causing them to feel overwhelmed and unable to control their feelings. Throughout the song, there is an underlying sense of fear and apprehension. The line "the things we know could unleash hell" suggests that expressing their true emotions could lead to undesirable consequences or unleashing negative emotions. The lyrics also highlight the connection between the two individuals, with lines like "you've got me by the sleeve" and "you've got me by the collar." There is a sense of longing and attraction, but their fears hold them back from fully embracing their feelings. The chorus repeats the plea to "hold your breath" and "hold your tongue," reinforcing the need for restraint. The line "we're keeping every thought to ourselves in case we mention how we feel" further emphasizes the fear of expressing their emotions. In the bridge of the song, the protagonist observes the other person's confidence and lack of fear in expressing themselves, as their imagination shimmers in the way they move. They are caught up in the moment and feel a strong connection, but the protagonist is still hesitant. The lyrics conclude with a sense of urgency and a desire for the other person to take action, as they ask, "What are you waiting for?" This line suggests that the protagonist is ready to confront their fears and hopes the other person will do the same. Overall, "One Hundred" explores the internal struggle of repressed emotions and the fear of expressing oneself. It portrays the longing for connection and the desire to break free from the constraints of silence and fear.
