Meaning of "Narcolepsy" by Ben Folds Five

The lyrics of "Narcolepsy" delve into the complex emotions and experiences surrounding sleep and its impact on the singer's life. The repetition of "I go to sleep" throughout the song reflects a sense of resignation or escape from reality, where the singer finds solace in sleep but also acknowledges the toll it takes on their relationships. The confession "I should warn you, I go to sleep" reveals a vulnerability and honesty about the singer's tendency to retreat into sleep to cope with emotions. The contrast between dreaming and waking life, where the singer leaves their partner to cry while they dream, highlights a sense of detachment and disconnect. The plea to "wake me up" at the end of the song suggests a desire to be jolted out of this state of emotional numbness and face reality.