The meaning of Close To Me by The Cure

"Close To Me" is an iconic song from the uchronic English rock band, The Cure. Released in 1985, the song exists as a paragon of the post-punk era, resonating with an eclectic audience even today. In the following article, we will delve deep into the meaning of this classic tune, analyzing its lyrics and the essence it portrays.

One of the memorable signatures of "Close To Me" is its contradictory feel. While the jovial melody suggests fun and frolic, the lyrics echo a melancholic sentiment. It's this fascinating juxtaposition that has beguiled and entranced myriad listeners, making the song a timeless gem in the roster of The Cure.

Robert Smith, the lead singer and the primary songwriter of The Cure, is renowned for his evocative lyricism. The song "Close To Me" is no exception. The lyrics are conveyed in the first person as though Smith is spilling his deepest vulnerabilities through a diary entry. In various interviews, Smith affirmed the song was about his fear of sleeping and the ensuing nightmares, hence the frequent use of the symbol of a 'bed'.

Ostensibly, the song's lyrics depict intense anxiety and claustrophobia. The words, "If only I was sure / That my head on the door was a dream," further imply the speaker's tormented mental state — possibly an allusion to 'night terrors' or periods of psychosis.

The music video of the song, directed by Tim Pope, complements this interpretation with its portrayal of a claustrophobic experience. Featured in a wardrobe teetering on the edge of a cliff, the band members are eventually pushed into the sea, a representation of waking up from a nightmare.

Instrumentally, "Close To Me" underlines its uplifting facade with a playful tune on the keyboard and horns, which was noted as a departure from the band's traditional heavy bass and dark, gothic tones. However, underneath this jovial melody, Smith's haunted voice and grim lyrics narrate a completely different story. It's a masterstroke by Smith and the band, who have artistically weaved a façade of joy over a tale of despair, resulting in an ironic harmony between the two.

In conclusion, "Close To Me" by The Cure is a subtly complex piece of art. On the surface, it's a buoyant, infectious track that intrigues with its atypical rhythm; however, scratching beyond the surface, it reveals a dark narrative concerning fear, anxiety, and inner torment. Whether you're swaying to its funky rhythm or empathizing with its poignant lyrics, one thing is sure - "Close To Me" never fails to strike a chord within its listeners. This quintessence of deep emotion wrapped in a lively tune is what makes "Close To Me" a timeless masterpiece, resonating with audiences, irrespective of the generation.