Meaning of "Close My Eyes" by Mariah Carey

"Close My Eyes" delves into the theme of lost innocence and the pressures that childhood can bear. Mariah Carey expresses her experience as a wayward child who carried the weight of the world within herself. This weight symbolizes the burdens and responsibilities placed upon her at a young age, perhaps due to difficult circumstances or an accelerated adulthood. The winding road of life and the lessons she learned prematurely indicate the challenges she faced during her upbringing.

However, the act of closing her eyes takes on a transformative role in the lyrics. It becomes a powerful tool for Mariah Carey to find grounding and regain a sense of childlike wonder. By shutting out the external world and raising her head to the sky, she escapes the pressures of adulthood and taps into a purer, more innocent part of herself. The moon serves as a symbol of this connection, representing the vastness of the universe and the mysteries of childhood.

The lyrics also highlight the coping mechanism of dissociation or numbing oneself to the madness of the world. Mariah Carey mentions growing numb and blocking away the overwhelming aspects of life. This could be seen as a survival tactic, allowing her to navigate the hardships she faced while leaving the worst unsaid and dissipating negative emotions. However, as she admits, this numbing also comes at a cost. It disconnects her from her true self, the woman-child feeling inside, and creates an instability that may never fully be resolved.

The latter part of the song introduces the idea of a guardian angel and sailing away on an ocean with them by her side. This guardian angel symbolizes protection and guidance during difficult times. The image of orange clouds burning into the angel's image signifies a vivid memory and a lingering presence, showcasing the lasting impact of their support. This imagery emphasizes the idea that even when Mariah Carey feels like she grew up too soon, that inner child is still alive within her, sustained by the presence of her guardian angel.

Overall, "Close My Eyes" explores the dualities of growing up too quickly and finding solace in reconnecting with one's inner child. It highlights the lasting impact of childhood experiences and the longing to hold onto innocence despite the pressures of adulthood and the passage of time.