Meaning of "Tongues" by Pepper

The lyrics in "Tongues" by Pepper revolve around themes of emotional manipulation and detachment in a relationship. The narrator sings about using their "truthful tongue" to chop up their partner's heart, emphasizing a sense of cruel honesty. They assert their dominance by forbidding physical touch until the song is done, creating a power dynamic where the narrator controls the emotional state of their partner. The line "And when I leave, you'll see the wrong you've done" suggests that the narrator takes pleasure in leaving their partner hurt and realizing their own mistakes.

The chorus repeats the phrase "Does she know my name? Doesn't mean a thing," which highlights the narrator's indifference towards recognition or acknowledgment from their partner. This indifference adds to the detachment and emotional manipulation depicted in the song. The line "I'll probably be the last one standing here" suggests a sense of abandonment, as the narrator expects to be left behind.

The lyrics also touch on feelings of longing and nostalgia. The line "Wish you were here so I could sleep just shy of a lie" conveys a desire for the presence of the person they speak of, even if it means living in a state of denial or illusion. The repetition of "Open up the window sill" and the mention of finding a cold piece of anything they once loved reinforces the sense of longing and nostalgia for lost love.

Overall, the lyrics in "Tongues" portray a toxic relationship characterized by emotional manipulation, detachment, and a longing for a lost love. The narrator takes pleasure in hurting their partner and leaving them behind, emphasizing their power and control in the dynamic.