Gilded Lily

The song 'Gilded Lily' by Cults delves into the complexities of a relationship and the emotional toll it can take on an individual. The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who has been through a significant amount of emotional labor and is reflecting on their experiences. The repeated line 'Haven't I given enough, given enough?' echoes a sense of exhaustion and a desire for recognition of their efforts. The song's title itself, 'Gilded Lily,' could be a metaphor for something that is unnecessarily adorned or embellished, hinting at the superficiality that can exist in relationships.

The mention of 'an everyday decision' and 'double vision' suggests the constant choices one has to make in a relationship and the confusion that can arise when trying to see things clearly. The artist seems to be grappling with the idea of whether their contributions to the relationship are valued or if they are simply taken for granted. The imagery of living 'in spaces between walls' conveys a feeling of being trapped or confined, yet still holding onto the hope that the other person will 'take me with you,' indicating a deep connection despite the struggles.

The closing lines of the song, where the protagonist asks to have their arms stretched out and alarms turned off, symbolize a longing for peace and a break from the constant strain. The request to 'lie to me' could be interpreted as a plea for comfort, even if it means embracing an illusion. 'Gilded Lily' by Cults paints a picture of the sacrifices one makes in love and the bittersweet realization that sometimes, those sacrifices go unnoticed.