Meaning of "Iris" by Live

The lyrics of "Iris" by Live explore the theme of disillusionment and the struggle to find genuine connection in relationships. The narrator describes a physical gesture of affection, specifically placing their hand on someone's head, and the beauty they saw in that moment. However, this beauty has become perverted by sentimentality and mistaken as love. It is suggested that the narrator has idealized their perception of love, only to find it broken by the "felix" or false truth of their partner. The repetition of "the iris of your eye will always shake it" signifies the constant questioning and destabilization of the narrator's perception of love.

The mention of the armies the narrator has created suggests that they have built defenses and created emotional barriers due to their past disappointments and hurt. However, these armies ultimately "hate it" and only serve to bait the narrator into further emotional turmoil. The repeated declaration of "Until I take their flags" represents the narrator's determination to overcome their own defenses and find a sense of peace within themselves. They realize that they must confront and conquer their own insecurities and fears before they can truly find love and connection.

The overall message of the song seems to be about the importance of self-reflection and self-growth in forming genuine and fulfilling relationships. The narrator recognizes that their own emotional baggage has hindered their ability to find true love and seeks to dismantle their defenses and find inner peace. Through this process, they hope to establish a genuine connection with others.