Meaning of "I Fold" by Sharon Van Etten

The lyrics of "I Fold" by Sharon Van Etten delve into themes of self-doubt, loss of confidence, and a struggle to maintain faith in oneself. The speaker expresses a sense of being broken down, despite appearing fine on the surface, and feeling trapped in a rut with an inability to find solid ground. The references to a haven in the basement where the speaker once sang could symbolize a lost sense of comfort and security. The repeated refrain of being "broken down" highlights a feeling of defeat and vulnerability. The lines about losing touch and wrinkling up suggest the passage of time and the inevitability of change, leading to a realization that time cannot be undone. Overall, the song conveys a powerful emotional journey of facing adversity, questioning one's sense of self, and ultimately reaching a point of acceptance and surrender.