Meaning of "Smile Lines" by Incubus

The lyrics of "Smile Lines" delve into themes of attraction, maturity, and the cyclical nature of life. The speaker recounts a significant encounter, emphasizing the intensity of their emotions by describing the blood rushing and mingling. This experience is depicted as enigmatic and curious, highlighting the intrigue and excitement of meeting someone who seems destined to have a profound impact on their life. The reference to spiders in dreams and the symbolism of weaving and webs highlight the interconnectedness between the speaker and this person, suggesting an almost predestined connection.

The speaker's desire for this individual is emphasized with the repetition of the phrase "I want you bad." This desire can be interpreted both romantically and metaphorically, representing a longing for intimacy, connection, and a desire to fully explore the potential of this encounter. They recognize the lasting impact this person has had on them, as evidenced by the smile lines on their face, indicating that they have gained wisdom and experience from previous relationships.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of age and maturity. The speaker expresses a refusal to conform to societal expectations of acting a certain way at a certain age, stating that they will never "act their age." This defiance of social norms is further reinforced by the dismissive attitude towards insecurities, comparing them to a futile attempt to put the pin back in a grenade. The speaker recognizes the limitations of insecurities and chooses to focus on embracing life and the connections that come with it.

The repetition of the phrase "high school never ends" throughout the song carries multiple meanings. It could reflect a nostalgic longing for the intensity, excitement, and emotional vulnerability of youth. It also suggests that the immaturity, insecurities, and the cyclical nature of teenage relationships can persist and resurface even in adulthood. Overall, the lyrics of "Smile Lines" explore the complexities of attraction, maturity, and the unending cycles of life and relationships.