Meaning of "Since We've Been Wrong" by The Mars Volta

The lyrics of "Since We've Been Wrong" by The Mars Volta explore the complexities of a deteriorating relationship, where the speaker confronts their partner's actions and the emotional turmoil they have caused. The repetition of the question "What took you so long?" suggests a frustration with the other person’s lack of understanding or acknowledgment of the pain they have inflicted. The imagery of being ingrown inside one's skin and the need to escape through "those eyelids" conveys a sense of suffocation and a desire for freedom from the emotional entanglement. The theme of not belonging and feeling out of place is evident throughout the song, adding to the overall sense of disconnection and isolation. The speaker's plea for the other person to recognize their inner turmoil and ask if they are still a mess reflects a deep longing for validation and closure. Overall, the lyrics paint a poignant picture of a relationship plagued by misunderstandings, lack of communication, and unfulfilled emotional needs.