Meaning of "Cut-Out Shapes" by Magazine

The lyrics of "Cut-Out Shapes" by Magazine paint a picture of a complex and tumultuous relationship. The protagonist seems to be in a situation where they are both comforted and disturbed by the violent nature of their partner, who they describe as having "hidden hands" of violence that they believe only they can understand. The reference to rehearsing dreams and confessions suggests a sense of secrecy and intimacy in this relationship, where they may be sharing their deepest desires and fears. The mention of meeting at a psychiatric unit adds a layer of instability and vulnerability to the relationship, as they bond over shared struggles and habits that others may not understand. The comparison to an old lady swallowing a fly and the mention of an "inescapable mother" and "crazy lover" hint at themes of entrapment and chaos, reflecting the complexity and unpredictability of the relationship. Overall, the lyrics explore the dynamic of a relationship that is both alluring and unsettling, filled with contradictions and hidden depths.