Dom Dolla & Mansionair's song 'Strangers (Tinlicker Remix)' explores the complexities of human connection, especially when communication becomes fraught with the potential for misunderstanding and conflict. As the lyrics oscillate between vulnerability and self-preservation, the central message revolves around the idea that the words we choose can either bridge or widen the chasm between ourselves and others, potentially turning us into strangers or even adversaries.
The song 'Strangers' begins by painting a picture of emotional vulnerability, with the speaker's 'salt eyes' and 'sirens' setting a tone of inner turmoil and alarm. Having played 'by your rules,' the speaker experiences a sense of self-betrayal and pain, indicating a tumultuous emotional state. There is a lingering feeling of insecurity that is quickly countered by self-affirmation, with the speaker insisting on wanting and needing this experience, suggesting a knowing choice to endure the situation, despite its painfulness.
The chorus of 'Strangers' encapsulates the crux of the emotional journey, as the lyrics imply that communication is at a precipice. The repetition of 'What we say now will make us dangerous / What we say now will make us strangers' conveys a heightened sense of caution and awareness that words have power. The term 'dangerous' indicates the potential for words to harm and sever connections, proposing that there is a risk involved in vulnerable communication that could lead to alienation.
In the second verse, we encounter the themes of reflection and pain once more. The term 'Broadside' suggests a sudden and overwhelming attack, while 'Rewind' implies an attempt to undo or revisit the past. 'You can be so cruel,' articulates the pain inflicted by the other party, and yet again there is a declaration of agency with, 'I won't be your fool again.' The emotional journey at this point carries a resolve to not repeat past mistakes, alluding to learning and growth from the hurtful experiences.
As the song returns to the chorus, the persistent refrain about the potential for words to make the individuals strangers to each other reinforces the feeling of trepidation and the importance of the crossroads at which they find themselves. The distress of the verses culminates into the realization that their current trajectory could lead to estrangement. This loop of understanding the weight of words and their ability to transform relationships makes the emotional arc dizzying yet profound.
"Salt eyes"
This phrase typically signifies tears caused by deep emotions, highlighting the character's vulnerable state.
"What we say now will make us dangerous"
The repetition of this line emphasizes how critical and powerful words can be in the dynamics of a relationship, with the potential to harm or alienate.
"I won't be your fool again"
This line reflects a decisive moment of reclaiming one's dignity and refusing to be taken advantage of a second time.
"Broadside / Rewind"
The juxtaposition of an unexpected attack and the desire to reverse time indicates a struggle between accepting hurt and wishing to undo it.