Meaning of "Stand Too Close" by Motion City Soundtrack

The lyrics of "Stand Too Close" by Motion City Soundtrack delve into the inner struggles of the narrator when it comes to intimacy and commitment. They express a fear of getting close to someone, as it might lead to vulnerability and potential heartbreak. The line "If I stand too close I might fall in, But if I'm too far gone I'll never win" captures this internal conflict. The narrator is torn between wanting to let someone in and the risks that come with it. They acknowledge that when this person is near, they tend to disappear into an anxious state, highlighting their fear and discomfort with intimacy.

The lyrics also touch on the issue of the narrator's past behavior, as they apologize for their actions that have caused harm to the person they are singing to. They reference going "off the wall like Busta Rhymes" and pulling stupid stunts, which have left the other person thinking there is something wrong with them. This implies that the narrator has a tendency to self-sabotage relationships and push people away. They also mention the person's criticisms, stating that they've ignored most of them except for the fact that they struggle with commitment. This suggests that the narrator acknowledges the truth in this particular criticism.

The repetition of the line "All this distance, years of sweet resistance" explores the theme of distance in the relationship and the narrator's resistance to fully commit emotionally. They describe this distance as swirling overhead like angry clouds of discontent, emphasizing the negative impact it has on the relationship. The mention of "pessimistic attitude" further demonstrates the narrator's reluctance and tendency to view things in a negative light.

Despite all these struggles, the narrative takes a hopeful turn in the chorus when they express that if the person believes in them, they would want to spend time with them again. This suggests a glimmer of hope in the possibility of overcoming their fear of intimacy and eventually developing a healthier connection.

Overall, the lyrics of "Stand Too Close" explore the fear of intimacy, commitment issues, and self-sabotage within relationships. The narrator grapples with their own anxieties and past mistakes while expressing a willingness to change and make things right. It portrays the complexity of human emotions and the obstacles one faces when trying to navigate the delicate balance between vulnerability and self-preservation.