The lyrics of "Artichoke" by Cibo Matto compare the speaker's heart to an artichoke, which they eat petal by petal until there is nothing left. They question whether the person peeling them will continue to do so, expressing vulnerability and a desire for connection.

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Meaning of "Artichoke" by Cibo Matto


The metaphor of the artichoke in these lyrics can be interpreted as a representation of the speaker's guarded heart and vulnerability in relationships. The act of eating the petals one by one could symbolize the gradual opening up and revealing of the speaker's true self to another person. The uncertainty expressed about whether the person will continue peeling them reflects a fear of being hurt or rejected once their true self is fully exposed. The repeated pleas for more attention and the references to sensations like laughter, tears, and taste suggest a longing for emotional and physical intimacy. Overall, the lyrics convey a complex mix of desire, fear, and vulnerability in the realm of relationships.