Meaning of "Vulnerable" by Sarah Jaffe

The lyrics of "Vulnerable" explore the complexities and frustrations of being in a relationship where communication and understanding seem elusive. The narrator feels constantly invalidated, as their words are twisted and flipped, leading to a sense of emotional vulnerability and insecurity. The partner's actions, like waking the narrator up just to call them or driving a long distance only to leave shortly after, highlight a sense of inconsistency and unpredictability that leaves the narrator feeling confused and detached. The constant back-and-forth between the narrator's emotions - from frustration to resignation to a reluctant acceptance of the situation - reflects the internal turmoil of trying to make sense of a relationship that feels unbalanced and often one-sided. The repeated reference to feeling vulnerable underscores the emotional fragility and unease that comes with being in a relationship where understanding and connection seem scarce. Overall, the lyrics paint a poignant picture of the struggle to navigate a relationship where communication is strained and emotional intimacy is elusive.