Meaning of "Sleeper" by The Swellers

The lyrics in "Sleeper" by The Swellers seem to address a situation where someone is struggling with past traumas, negative influences, and self-destructive behaviors. The singer expresses a sense of responsibility and care towards this person, symbolized by the determination to keep them awake and safe. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for not letting them fall back into old patterns or destructive behaviors that could harm them. The mention of walking on eggshells or thin ice highlights the delicate nature of the situation and the singer's efforts to navigate it carefully. The repeated emphasis on not falling asleep can be seen as a call to stay vigilant, aware, and present in the moment to avoid slipping back into harmful behaviors. Overall, the lyrics convey a message of support, protection, and the importance of staying awake and making conscious choices to break free from negative influences.