Meaning of "Second Skin" by The Gits

"Second Skin" delves into the emotional turmoil experienced by the narrator. They confess to having thought about their situation countless times, feeling the weight of their emotions and struggling to maintain composure. The phrase "just let it breathe" suggests a desire for release and relief from their internal struggles. They acknowledge that bottling up their emotions will only cause more harm in the long run, which ties into the themes of self-preservation and the need to seek help when necessary.

The metaphor of a "second skin" is powerful in expressing the narrator's longing for support and protection. They yearn for something or someone who can hold them up and help them escape the metaphorical hole they have dug themselves into. The repeated plea for a second skin emphasizes their vulnerability and the realization that they can't navigate their challenges alone. It highlights the universal need for connection and support in times of difficulty.

The lyrics also touch on the contradictory nature of pain and the narrator's struggle to make sense of it. They describe waking up and feeling a sense of bravery despite the pain they experience. The pain is compared to a drug injected into their veins, temporarily paralyzing them and blurring the line between pleasure and discomfort. This indicates that their pain has become the norm, almost rendering them numb to it. It is an expression of the emotional heaviness they carry.

Throughout the song, there is an underlying message of resilience and determination. The narrator acknowledges that surviving is not easy, but they refuse to deny the choice to keep fighting. They are aware of the challenges and deceptions they face in the world, yet they continue to endure, seeking a special strength within themselves. The idea of a second skin represents their resilience and their ability to keep going despite the difficulties they encounter.

Overall, "Second Skin" is a powerful exploration of internal struggles, the need for support, and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. It portrays an individual who is battling their own emotions and seeks solace in the idea of finding something or someone who can provide them with the strength to persevere.