Meaning of "Living Dead" by Marina And The Diamonds

In "Living Dead," Marina And The Diamonds delve into themes of dissatisfaction, emptiness, and the desire for a more fulfilling life. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who feels trapped in a monotonous and unfulfilling routine. The line "Everyday I feel the same, stuck and I could never change" speaks to a lack of agency and a feeling of being stagnant. The narrator longs to break free from this cycle but feels like they are trapped, hence the reference to being "sucked into a black balloon" and "spat into an empty room."

The chorus, "I'm living dead, dead, dead, dead. Only alive, -live, -live, -live," highlights the contrast between feeling alive and feeling like a mere observer of life. The narrator can only experience a semblance of being alive when they pretend to be someone else or detach themselves from their own existence. This suggests a disconnection from their true self and a reliance on external facades to find any sense of vitality.

The mention of "bubble wrap around my heart" reflects the persona's attempt to guard themselves emotionally, fearing further disappointment or pain. They wait for their life to start, but it never seems to happen, leaving them permanently at square one. The lyrics indicate a deep longing for change and for something more fulfilling.

The bridge section introduces a dream-like quality to the song, with the narrator lying back in a "glittering mist." This imagery evokes a sense of longing and regret as they reflect on missed opportunities and unlived experiences. The line "I think of all the men I could've kissed" suggests a desire for connection and intimacy, further highlighting the emptiness they currently feel.

Ultimately, "Living Dead" captures the desire for authenticity and a more meaningful existence. The narrator yearns for a life and love that they haven't fully experienced but can only see from a distance, like a bird's eye view. The repetition of "dead" throughout the song underscores their sense of emptiness and the urgency for change.