Meaning of "Smoking Section" by St. Vincent

In "Smoking Section," St. Vincent explores the darker and more vulnerable aspects of human emotions. The speaker reveals a sense of hopelessness and a longing for something to disrupt their apathy and detachment. The metaphor of the smoking section represents a desire for a random spark to ignite their life and bring them out of their emotional numbness. They yearn for an event or person to make them feel alive again.

The lyrics also touch on the speaker's feelings of insignificance and being trapped in an in-between state. They compare themselves to an inland ocean, too big to be a lake, yet too small to be noticed. This suggests a feeling of being overlooked, unappreciated, or insignificant. Similarly, they stand on the edge of a roof, contemplating jumping and causing harm to themselves as a way to punish someone, most likely the object of their affections. This speaks to the need for validation and a desperate attempt to elicit a response from the person they desire.

The repeated phrase "Let it happen" reflects the speaker's willingness to embrace pain, chaos, or any form of emotional stimulation as long as it breaks the cycle of detachment. They are willing to endure self-inflicted harm or engage in destructive behavior in the hopes of feeling something, even if it is negative. This speaks to the desperation and longing for connection that the speaker experiences.

The lyrics also question the value of love. The speaker contemplates what could be better than love, suggesting a skepticism or disappointment in its ability to bring happiness or fulfillment. However, they ultimately come to the conclusion that, despite its complexities and potential for pain, love is still better than the alternatives. It is a recognition of the power and significance of human connection, even in the face of disappointment and vulnerability.

Through its introspective and melancholic tone, "Smoking Section" invites listeners to contemplate the complexities of their own emotions and the longing for connection in a world that often feels distant and detached.