Meaning of "Gravity" by Sara Bareilles

"Gravity" is a song that delves into the complexities of a toxic relationship. The lyrics convey the strong yet destructive hold that someone can have over another person. The repeated line "Something always brings me back to you, it never takes too long" suggests that the speaker consistently finds themselves drawn back to this person, even though they are aware it is not in their best interest. This could reflect the addictive nature of unhealthy relationships, where it becomes difficult to break away despite knowing the negative consequences.

The verses highlight the contrast between the tangible and intangible aspects of the relationship. The lines "You hold me without touch, you keep me without chains" indicate a powerful emotional connection that goes beyond physical contact. This could suggest that the person has a great influence on the speaker's thoughts, feelings, and sense of identity. Additionally, the desire to "drown in your love and not feel your rain" encapsulates the speaker's longing for the positive aspects of the relationship without having to endure the negative aspects.

The chorus serves as a plea for liberation. The speaker implores, "Set me free, leave me be, I don't want to fall another moment into your gravity." This reveals their desire to break free from the gravitational pull of this person's influence and escape the cycle of being drawn back to them. However, they also recognize that this is a challenging endeavor, as the person is aware of their vulnerabilities and continues to exert control. The line "You're on to me and all over me" suggests that the person is fully aware of the speaker's weaknesses and continues to exploit them.

The bridge adds another layer to the meaning of the song. The speaker acknowledges that they idealize the person, viewing them as "everything I think I need." They describe living on their knees, constantly seeking validation and approval. Yet, despite recognizing that the person is "neither friend nor foe," they struggle to let go. The final lines, "The one thing that I still know is that you're keeping me down," emphasize the oppressive nature of the relationship.

In essence, "Gravity" reveals the inner turmoil and conflicting emotions experienced in a toxic relationship. It portrays the struggle between the desire to break free and the difficulty of letting go when a person holds such significant emotional power.