Meaning of "Sarah Sitting" by Swirlies

The lyrics of "Sarah Sitting" explore themes of admiration, longing, and self-doubt. Sarah, the central figure in the song, represents a muse or a source of inspiration for the narrator. The act of painting her nails like watercolors suggests that Sarah has a unique and artistic approach to life. She is meticulous and attentive to detail, as indicated by the reference to her "fastidious flower." This attention to detail is also reflected in her "perfect pictures" and the use of colors like reds and blues.

The narrator's infatuation with Sarah is evident through their longing and desire to connect with her. They express a sense of waiting and yearning for her attention and affection. However, the narrator struggles with shyness and self-doubt, preventing them from taking action or expressing their feelings straightforwardly. This is illustrated by the line "But I'm far too shy to try them too." The reference to being "tossed and turned all night long" suggests that the narrator's infatuation with Sarah is causing them restlessness and anxiety.

Sarah's silence becomes a significant barrier to the narrator's desire for connection. While she fills the narrator's head with a song, representing her captivating presence, she withholds the words, preventing the narrator from fully understanding and engaging with her. This lack of communication or intimate sharing makes it impossible for the narrator to fully sing along or connect with her on a deeper level.

Overall, "Sarah Sitting" explores the complexity of unrequited love and the frustrations that arise from self-doubt and a lack of open communication. It portrays a longing for connection and a yearning to understand and be understood by the object of affection. The song captures the bittersweet nature of infatuation and the limitations it can place on personal growth and meaningful connection.