Meaning of "Carousel" by Melanie Martinez

"Carousel" by Melanie Martinez delves into the idea of romantic pursuits resembling a never-ending cycle, with the narrator feeling trapped and unable to escape. The repeated imagery of a carousel symbolizes the repetitive nature of chasing after love. The narrator questions whether they will ever catch up to love, acknowledging the uncertainty of their romantic endeavors. They compare the pursuit of love to a fairy tale, highlighting the illusion and fantasy involved in chasing after someone. The repetition of the line "But I feel like I'm glued on tight to this carousel" emphasizes the feeling of being stuck, unable to break free from the cycle of pursuing love. It suggests a sense of frustration and longing for something more meaningful and authentic. The reference to playland and the carnival further reinforces the idea of love as a game or amusement, with the narrator recognizing the temporary and fleeting nature of these romantic pursuits. The lyrics also touch on the vulnerability and potential pain that comes with falling in love, cautioning that once you've bought into the game, there's no turning back. The final lines, "Why did you steal my cotton candy heart? / You threw it in this damn coin slot / And now I'm stuck, I'm stuck riding, riding, riding," encapsulate the narrator's frustration and feeling of being used or taken advantage of in the pursuit of love. Overall, "Carousel" paints a picture of an individual caught in a cycle of romantic pursuits that are ultimately unfulfilling and leave them feeling trapped.