The lyrics of Joy Again's song Stairs explore themes of time, love, loss, and uncertainty. The opening lines express a sense of feeling trapped by the passage of time, with the modulated tempo and wavering sunbeams creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The mention of a museum and a fall down a staircase suggest a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past. The chorus questions whether the crowd below is what the singer and their companion wanted or if they were seeking something more private. This ambiguity hints at a desire for connection but also a fear of exposure. The second verse continues with imagery of death and decay, with the graves of ghosts and bleached bones. The line "Do you know the trouble we're in?" suggests a sense of danger or risk, perhaps related to the speaker's relationship with their companion. The line "just lie down inside the drawer" is particularly cryptic and could be interpreted in many ways, but might suggest either a desire for escape or a sense of surrender. The mention of a compass and the reference to the speaker taking responsibility when they leave suggests a need for direction and a fear of making mistakes. Ultimately, the song seems to be grappling with complex emotions and a sense of uncertainty. The repeated refrain of "what's so important to me" suggests a search for meaning and purpose, but also a sense of frustration and confusion. The song's dreamy atmosphere and cryptic lyrics leave the listener with a sense of unresolved tension and perhaps a desire for clarity.
