Meaning of "Sleep" by Royal Blood

The lyrics in "Sleep" by Royal Blood delve into the aftermath of a breakup and the emotions that can linger, manifesting in a repeating cycle of pain and longing. The speaker's reluctance to sleep can be interpreted as a resistance to facing the reality of the situation, as sleep often signifies a respite from the conscious mind and an opportunity to escape. The recurring nightmare symbolizes the speaker's inability to fully move on from the past and break free from the emotional distress caused by their ex. The presence of their ex in the lyrics suggests that they still hold a significant place in the speaker's thoughts and emotions, and the idea of them being with someone else intensifies the speaker's anguish.

The plea for medication and a cure represents the speaker's desire for a quick fix or a way to numb the pain. It highlights their desperation to find a solution to their emotional turmoil and suggests that they may be willing to try anything to escape their suffering. The mention of an antidote hidden up someone's sleeve further emphasizes this need for relief and the hope of finding a remedy that can alleviate their pain.

The recurring theme of being alone and feeling abandoned is also apparent in the lyrics. The speaker's mention of being left on their own despite the reassurance that they will be alright implies a sense of betrayal and abandonment. This adds another layer of vulnerability and emotional distress to the song, as the speaker is left feeling isolated and unable to find solace in their situation.

Overall, "Sleep" conveys the pain, longing, and desperation that can accompany the aftermath of a breakup. It explores the internal struggle of trying to move on while still being haunted by memories and the fear of being replaced. The lyrics capture the raw emotions of heartbreak and the desire to find a way to escape the ongoing mental torment.