Meaning of "Lips Like Sugar" by Echo & The Bunnymen

The lyrics of "Lips Like Sugar" convey a sense of longing and desire for someone who is both physically attractive and emotionally distant. The woman in the song is described as "floating like a swan" and having "lips like sugar," which suggests her beauty and allure. However, despite the protagonist's efforts to catch her and be with her, she remains elusive and always seems to slip away.

The lyrics also touch upon the protagonist's understanding of the woman's nature. He claims to know "what she knows" and what she's thinking, which suggests that he has become familiar with her pattern of behavior. The repetition of "sugar kisses" throughout the song emphasizes the seductive and addictive nature of the woman's allure.

Furthermore, the lyrics metaphorically explore the dynamics of power and control in relationships. The woman is portrayed as having power over the protagonist, as she calls for him and he is willing to give her anything she asks for. However, despite his efforts to please her, she never truly belongs to him. The line "To laugh at how you break / And melt into this lake" suggests that the protagonist's attempts to possess her only result in his own emotional pain and dissolution.

The lyrics take a reflective turn towards the end, with the woman being described as the protagonist's mirror. She reflects who he is and reveals his vulnerability and duality as both a "loser and a winner." The mention of the "King of Siam" and the "Siamese twin" suggests a sense of entwined fate and co-dependency between the protagonist and the woman. Ultimately, the song portrays a complex and unbalanced relationship, where desire and longing remain unfulfilled.