Meaning of "Trouble Sleeping" by Corinne Bailey Rae

The lyrics of "Trouble Sleeping" by Corinne Bailey Rae explore the internal conflict of someone who is struggling to admit their feelings of love. The speaker is tired, physically and emotionally, as they grapple with the incessant thoughts and the constant balancing act between acknowledging their emotions and trying to maintain control. The idea of "trouble sleeping" serves as a metaphor for the speaker's inner turmoil and restless state of mind. They refuse to give in or surrender to their feelings, potentially due to fear of vulnerability or past experiences of not having their love reciprocated. The line, "Won't say that I'm falling in love," suggests a resistance to admitting their true emotions, perhaps out of self-preservation.

The speaker expresses a desire for some form of therapy or instant remedy that can provide a cure and alleviate their suffering. This could represent a longing for a solution that would allow them to experience love without the accompanying vulnerability and uncertainty. However, they also exhibit a hesitance to fully embrace their feelings, as highlighted by the lines, "Tell me I don't see myself, Couldn't I blame something else." Here, the speaker questions if their struggles and emotional turmoil could be attributed to external factors rather than acknowledging their love. This reluctance to accept their emotions could stem from a fear of rejection or past heartbreak.

The repeated refrain of "Don't say I'm falling in love" showcases the speaker's resistance and denial of their emotions. It can be seen as a plea to others to refrain from labeling or categorizing their feelings. They may fear that if their emotions are acknowledged, it could lead to vulnerability, potential heartache, or a loss of control. The line, "Cause no no, won't give in, give in," further emphasizes the speaker's determination to resist their emotions and maintain a sense of self-preservation.

Overall, "Trouble Sleeping" delves into the inner conflict between acknowledging love and maintaining emotional self-defense. It explores the complexities of vulnerability, fear of past experiences, and a desire for self-protection. The lyrics capture the longing for a solution or remedy that can alleviate emotional turmoil and allow the speaker to navigate the territory of love without falling too deeply or losing their sense of control.