The song "Knots" by Lisa Hannigan tells a story of being lost and disconnected, both physically and emotionally. The lyrics describe a situation where the narrator finds themselves sitting on a stoop early in the morning. As they observe a starling flying away, they feel a strong desire to also escape their current circumstances. The narrator expresses a feeling of being completely lost and uncertain in their life. They are wearing high heels and an old dress, symbolizing their attempts to fit into societal norms and expectations while feeling out of place. Furthermore, they have new keys that belong to the wrong city, symbolizing their disconnection from where they should be. The line "I tie the knots to remember in my heart" suggests that the narrator is trying to hold onto memories or experiences, perhaps as a way to find some anchor in their confusion. However, they feel overwhelmed and suffocated, as indicated by "choking and sputtering to a stop." This could imply that despite their attempts to find stability, they are still unable to fully escape their feelings of being lost. The narrator describes themselves as a "borrower and lender of the lot," which suggests a constant exchange or giving and taking in their relationships and interactions. It could symbolize their struggle to find balance and maintain stable connections with others. "I walk away asleep and chalk an outline round the scene" portrays a sense of detachment and numbness, as if they are merely going through the motions of life without truly being present. The mention of "whiskey talk" refers to conversations that are heavy with denial and escapism, further highlighting the theme of disconnection and avoidance. Ultimately, "Knots" encapsulates a desire for escape and a yearning for something more fulfilling. It highlights the internal struggle of trying to find one's place in the world and the difficulty of navigating relationships and emotions. The song captures a sense of longing and the search for answers amidst feelings of confusion and displacement.
