The song "Chewing Cotton Wool" by The Japanese House is a poetic and abstract depiction of a complicated relationship. The lyrics paint a surreal and fragmented picture of the protagonist's feelings towards someone or something that is elusive and omnipresent. The song begins by describing this person or entity as the "only one around" and how they seem to have control over the environment, turning off the lights and being everywhere. The protagonist emphasizes that they are the only thing they can see. This suggests an intense fixation or obsession with this person. The lyrics continue to describe the subject as someone who defies boundaries. They "break up the line" and can be found "sitting in the rain," symbolizing their ability to disrupt the protagonist's sense of order and stability. They are compared to a movie trailer, alluding to how they present themselves in a captivating but fleeting manner. They are also likened to the sound of one's own voice and someone else's drink, implying that they have an influence on the protagonist's self-perception and desires. The line "she's like living in the countryside" is an interesting metaphor, suggesting a sense of calm and tranquility amidst chaos. However, this peace is undermined by the mention of a whirlpool in the sink, indicating the presence of a destructive force lurking beneath the surface. As the song progresses, the protagonist perceives this person or presence as a memory that they record and carry with them. They are portrayed as waiting in a hole, possibly implying a sense of anticipation or longing. The song concludes with the evocative imagery of the subject being compared to a monster in the fridge, a haunting and unsettling image. They are also depicted as "chewing cotton wool," which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the protagonist's own confusion or inability to fully comprehend and define this person or relationship. Overall, "Chewing Cotton Wool" presents a cryptic and fragmented exploration of a complex relationship, with the lyrics filled with poetic and metaphorical language. The meaning and story of the song are left open to interpretation, allowing listeners to connect with their own emotions and experiences.
