"Breathe" by UMI is a heartfelt song that explores the struggles of a toxic relationship and the emotional toll it takes on both individuals involved. The lyrics delve into the narrator's pleading for their partner to reciprocate their love and vulnerability. The song opens with the narrator questioning whether giving more of themselves will lead to their partner opening up as well. They express fear of becoming a distant memory to their partner, who is accustomed to being used in relationships. The chorus describes the partner's reliance on drugs as a coping mechanism to find meaning, feel alive, and maintain a sense of sanity. The narrator acknowledges this need but also recognizes the pain it causes them and their relationship. The second verse empathizes with the partner's struggle, acknowledging that staying afloat is harder for them. The narrator expresses a desire to find a way to talk to themselves without being insensitive to their partner. They understand that the partner uses drugs to find meaning in their pain. The bridge raises questions about whether the partner is fighting their true self and if the pain is subsiding. The partner's reflection in the mirror represents their self-doubt and the stagnancy they feel in their life. The song concludes with the repeated acknowledgment that breathing in the pain is difficult but necessary for growth and healing. It is a plea for understanding and support in a challenging relationship. Overall, "Breathe" expresses the struggles of a one-sided relationship, where one partner relies on drugs to cope with their pain while the other tries to understand and offer support. The song highlights the importance of communication, empathy, and self-reflection in navigating difficult relationships.
