The song "Listening" by The Used delves into themes of detachment, apathy, and the struggle to truly connect with others. The lyrics speak about a broken heart, where the person's skin becomes a symbol of vulnerability and clichéd emotions. The narrator urges the other person to confront their own feelings and to stay present in their lives, implying that they may be going through a difficult time. The lines about the heart beating and the lungs working are questioning if there is still life within the person, implying that they might be going through a state of emotional numbness or depression. The mention of "mud" suggests a feeling of being stuck, perhaps in a stagnant or unfulfilling situation. The chorus expresses the narrator's indifference, stating that they don't see or hear anything the other person is saying. It highlights a lack of connection or engagement, emphasizing that even if the other person speaks, the narrator is not really listening. The line "Lights out, I can't stand to hear you scream, while we were making love I was fast asleep" further emphasizes the emotional disconnect between the two individuals. It suggests a lack of passion or intimacy in their relationship. Towards the end, there is a shift in attitude, with the narrator acknowledging the value of life and suggesting that today might be worth living. However, it is unclear if they truly believe this or if it is just a fleeting thought. Overall, "Listening" explores the concept of emotional detachment and the struggle to truly engage with others. It touches on themes of numbness, disconnection, and the difficulty in truly listening and being present in relationships.
