Meaning of "Tainted" by Alina Baraz

The lyrics of "Tainted" delve into the narrator's emotional exhaustion and desire to break free from a toxic relationship. The opening lines convey their weariness and sense of being overwhelmed, feeling as though they have been working overtime and emphasizing the unhealthy cycle between them and their partner. As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the narrator has grown tired of the toxicity and pleads for the other person to understand their struggle. They express their desire to distance themselves, highlighting that everything the other person touches becomes tainted. This metaphorical language suggests that the impact of the relationship is not only emotionally draining for the narrator, but it also corrupts all aspects of their lives. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the narrator's plea for the other person to recognize the damage they have caused and their longing for freedom from the negativity. Overall, the song captures the experience of being trapped in an unhealthy relationship, where the narrator's sense of self is undermined and their happiness is compromised.