Meaning of "Don't Touch Anything" by Pile

The lyrics of "Don't Touch Anything" delve into themes of confusion, disconnection, and searching for meaning. The opening line, "Those eyes swam pretty deep," suggests that the protagonist is intrigued by someone's gaze, but fails to comprehend its true significance. This lack of understanding is further emphasized by the line, "But he only speaks in Japanese," implying a language barrier and an inability to communicate effectively. This could symbolize a feeling of isolation or being unable to fully connect with others.

The mention of living in dirt and wetting one's pants reflects a sense of self-deprecation and a feeling of being stuck in a messy, undesirable situation. The idea of making mud out of wet pants could be seen as an attempt to find some semblance of growth or progress even in unfavorable circumstances. The line "Maybe I should plant something first" suggests the protagonist contemplating the possibility of initiating change or starting anew before engaging in any meaningful action.

The chorus, with its repetition of "I guess I thought I noticed, but I don't know, don't tell a soul," speaks to a state of uncertainty and self-doubt. It implies that the protagonist might have thought they had a clear understanding of something or someone, but now they are unsure and do not want others to know their confusion or vulnerability. There is a desire to keep secrets and maintain a facade of certainty, despite feeling lost or disconnected.

The phrase "Step in it to occlude what's done" suggests an attempt to cover up or hide past mistakes, adding to the overall theme of secrecy and avoidance. The following line, "But how could a million years be wrong," questions the concept of time and its influence on the perception of right and wrong. It implies that certain actions or decisions may seem wrong in the present moment, but may be justified in the grand scheme of things. This could also reflect a longing for resolution or clarity in the face of confusion.

The final lines, "My spine is asking to show, how I come and how I go, when I find out you'll be the next to know," hint at a desire for self-expression and a longing for authenticity. The protagonist seeks to understand their own identity and how they navigate the world, and implies that once they figure it out, others will also become aware. It suggests a sense of vulnerability and the potential for personal growth and revelation.