Meaning of "She Lays Down" by The 1975

"She Lays Down" explores themes of depression, emotional numbness, and the desire for connection. The lyrics depict a woman who is clearly battling with her mental health, as symbolized by her lying on her bedroom floor. The reference to the chemicals that used to make her laugh suggests that she may have once found happiness or relief through medication or substances, but they no longer provide the same effect. This could be a reflection of the nature of depression itself, which often causes a person's ability to experience pleasure to diminish.

The line "She tries her best, but it hurts her chest" highlights the physical and emotional toll her depression takes on her. Despite her own inner pain, she still desires to love her child, indicating her strong maternal instinct and a longing for connection with her family. This demonstrates the complexity of mental illness, where a person can still have love for others despite their own struggles.

The narrator's hair being brown and the woman being scared to touch it symbolize a potential intimate relationship. The woman longs to feel something, suggesting emotional numbness or a desire for physical affection. The narrator acknowledges this and believes it is a reasonable request. However, their own sleep triggers the woman's tears, implying that their presence may exacerbate her emotional pain.

In the later verses, the song takes a darker turn. The mention of a plane trip to see the narrator's dad introduces the concept of escape and a desperate desire to alleviate pain. The woman prays for a fatal accident during the flight, indicating the depths of her suffering and the desperation for relief from her inner turmoil. However, the plane journey turns out to be another disappointment, as it doesn't provide the desired escape. The reference to the engines going bust and turning to dust could symbolize the woman's shattered hopes and dreams.

In the end, the woman turns to cocaine as her coping mechanism, but it fails to fix her brain. This showcases the destructive cycle of addiction that can often accompany mental illness. Despite the bleakness of her situation, the narrator still expresses compassion and understanding, highlighting the complexity of relationships and the impact of mental health struggles on both individuals involved.