Meaning of "The Spiderbite Song" by The Flaming Lips

"The Spiderbite Song" by The Flaming Lips delves into the themes of attachment, fear of loss, and the intricate interdependence between two individuals. The lyrics communicate the narrator's deep concern for the well-being of someone they love and their fear of losing that person. The spiderbite, car accident, and the pain of lost love symbolize different forms of potential harm or emotional devastation. The mention of the spiderbite highlights the sense of fragility in life, as something as small as a venomous bite could have devastating consequences. The car accident represents the unpredictable nature of life and the fear of losing someone in a sudden and unexpected manner. Lastly, the pain of lost love emphasizes the profound impact that love can have on a person's emotional state, both in its presence and absence.

The repeated line "I was glad that it didn't destroy you, how sad that would be, 'cause if it destroyed you, it would destroy me" highlights the narrator's intense emotional connection to the other person. It suggests that the narrator's existence, happiness, and well-being are closely tied to the survival and happiness of the person they love. The use of repetition emphasizes the depth of this connection and the weight of the potential loss. It also reflects the narrator's acknowledgment of their emotional vulnerability and the impact that losing the other person would have on them.

Overall, "The Spiderbite Song" explores themes of love, fear, dependence, and vulnerability. It conveys the complex emotions and fears that arise when someone we deeply care about is in danger or experiences pain. The lyrics ultimately emphasize the strength of the bond between two people and the immense emotional toll that their potential loss would have on the narrator.