The lyrics are about someone's fascination and obsession with another person, specifically focusing on the color of their skin being described as "black metallic." The narrator mentions that they've never seen the person they're referencing smile, and that this characteristic greatly intrigues them. The song also touches on the idea of secrets and the person's ability to keep them, and concludes with the repeated mention of their skin being "black metallic."

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Meaning of "Black Metallic" by Catherine Wheel


"Black Metallic" by Catherine Wheel explores themes of fascination, attraction, and the allure of the unknown. The narrator is infatuated with someone whose skin is described as "black metallic," a unique and captivating quality that sets this person apart. The repeated reference to the color of their skin suggests that it holds significance beyond mere physical appearance. The line "I've never seen you when you're smiling, it really gets under my skin" suggests that the person's lack of smiling or emotional expression adds to their intrigue and mystique. This absence of a familiar emotional response fuels the narrator's curiosity and desire to understand what this person is truly after.

The mention of secrets and the person's ability to keep them adds another layer to the lyrics. It implies that the person being observed has a complex inner world that remains hidden from others. This heightens the narrator's curiosity further, as they long to uncover the secrets and mysteries that lie beneath the surface. The idea of someone "turning black metallic" suggests a transformation occurring within the person. It could symbolize a metaphorical change or a deepening of their enigmatic nature, which further captivates the narrator.

Overall, the lyrics of "Black Metallic" convey the fascination and allure of someone who is perceived as different or mysterious. The focus on the color of their skin as something unique and captivating suggests that this trait holds symbolic meaning beyond its literal interpretation. The song explores the fascination with the unknown, the desire to understand, and the intoxication of being drawn to someone who remains elusive and enigmatic.