Meaning of "Sleep" by Garbage

The lyrics of "Sleep" by Garbage delve into the complex emotions tied to a mother-daughter relationship. The narrator appears to feel let down by the mother's lack of nurturing and support, as symbolized by the metaphor of things given going up in smoke. The sense of abandonment is palpable as the narrator describes feeling like a ghost and alluding to a sinking boat, highlighting a deep feeling of being adrift and alone. The repetition of the desire to sleep throughout the song signifies a yearning for an escape from the emotional turmoil and disappointment experienced in the relationship. This longing for sleep can be seen as a form of temporary relief from the pain and confusion caused by the strained maternal connection. Overall, the lyrics paint a poignant picture of a person grappling with unmet emotional needs and seeking solace in sleep as a respite from the complexities of human relationships.