Meaning of "Mercury" by The Ocean Blue

The lyrics of "Mercury" by The Ocean Blue hint at a profound sense of disconnection and inner turmoil. The repeated phrase "Quietly, almost elusively, almost invisibly" establishes a tone of subtle, yet powerful detachment. It conveys a feeling of slipping away from oneself, as if losing touch with one's identity or losing control over one's emotions. The mention of being "ripped in two, then pasted back again" reflects the internal conflict and fragmentation experienced by the narrator. There is a sense of being torn apart and forced back together, only to end up crumpled and discarded. This speaks to the vulnerability and fragility of the human psyche.

The mention of Mercury throughout the song serves as a metaphor for the erratic and volatile nature of the emotions being felt. In mythology, Mercury was the messenger of the gods, known for his quickness and mutable nature. By associating the emotions with Mercury, the song suggests that these feelings come and go rapidly, often without warning. The line "Happened once, then it happened twice, then it happened thrice, and now a fourth?" emphasizes the cyclical and repetitive nature of these emotional experiences. It suggests a pattern of recurring distress or instability.

Overall, "Mercury" captures a sense of inner turmoil and the struggle to maintain stability and identity. The lyrics depict a delicate emotional state, where the narrator feels detached and lost within themselves. The use of the metaphorical figure of Mercury further enhances the understanding of the emotional volatility and unpredictability being expressed.