Meaning of "Breathe (DNA)" by Backstreet Boys

The lyrics of "Breathe (DNA)" delve into the emotional aftermath of a failed relationship. The narrator expresses their deep longing for their former partner, highlighting the difficulty of letting go. The repetition of the lines "Sand keeps slipping right through my hands, Days all feel the same, Still numb from you" conveys a sense of stagnation and sadness, as the narrator feels stuck in their emotions. The use of the phrase "I suffocate without you, Heart beats for two" expresses the extreme dependency and reliance they had on their partner.

There is an evident yearning for nostalgia and the desire to go back to "better times" as the narrator asks, "Can somebody take me back?" This portrays their longing to relive the moments of happiness they once shared. The pain of the breakup is juxtaposed with the sentiment that it may be for the best, as indicated by the line, "If this is for the best, Tell me why it hurts so bad." This showcases the internal conflict between the rational understanding that the breakup might be necessary and the intense emotional pain that comes with it.

Throughout the song, the theme of breathing appears repeatedly, symbolizing a means of survival and coping. The lyrics suggest that "breathe" serves as a metaphorical action to help the narrator endure the difficult moments. In the chorus, the lyrics state, "Don't let go when the daylight's gone, 'Cause it's always darkest before the dawn, I breathe, breathe." Here, the narrator encourages themselves (and perhaps the listener) to hold on during challenging times, knowing that light will eventually emerge after the darkness. Breathing becomes a way to regain strength and persevere.

Overall, "Breathe (DNA)" portrays the complex mix of emotions experienced after a breakup – the longing, the regret, and the struggle to move forward. It explores the inner conflict between wanting to go back to the past and accepting that it might be better to let go. The song emphasizes the importance of finding solace in breathing, embracing change, and finding hope in the darkest moments.