Meaning of "Special" by Mew

The lyrics of "Special" convey a sense of fascination and admiration towards someone who is deemed special by the speaker. Using the metaphor of a rocket, the song suggests that this person has an explosive impact on the speaker's life, leaving a lasting impression. The repetition of "you're special" reinforces the significance of this individual and highlights their unique qualities. The mention of a lingering taste that cannot be shaken suggests that the memories or experiences shared with this person continue to have an effect on the speaker, even though they may be challenging or difficult. The line "I know you're special, you're a rocket to me / At this surprised all the time" implies that this person consistently surprises the speaker and keeps them engaged, even if it may be overwhelming at times.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of someone saying something to the speaker that they don't care about. This could represent the speaker's indifference to negative comments or opinions about their relationship with this special individual. Despite not caring, the speaker acknowledges that they will still address and confront whatever was said, indicating a sense of responsibility or dedication to the connection they share.

The final line, "And what do you stay to do? I saw the worst of you," suggests a shift in perspective. It implies that the speaker has witnessed a negative side or unpleasant behavior from this special person. While the song initially presents them as being solely admired, this line introduces a layer of complexity and reveals that the speaker has experienced both the positive and negative aspects of their relationship. This ambiguity adds depth to the lyrics and reflects the complexities of human connections.

Overall, "Special" portrays a mix of adoration, challenges, surprises, and a willingness to confront difficult situations within a special relationship.