XXX (feat. Bill Callahan)

Noah Cyrus's song "XXX (feat. Bill Callahan)" is a heartfelt exploration of love's overwhelming nature and the difficulty of containing such a powerful emotion. The lyrics reveal a sense of vulnerability and openness, as Cyrus admits to not being able to contain multitudes or even her own feelings. This inability to contain love is not seen as a flaw but rather as a natural and desirable state. The repeated use of "XXX" in signing letters and texts symbolizes affection and intimacy, even extending to past relationships, suggesting that love, once given, remains a part of her.

The metaphor of love as a surgeon is particularly striking, as it conveys both the precision and the potential pain involved in deep emotional connections. The imagery of breaking a sternum to touch someone's heart underscores the intensity and depth of her feelings. This metaphor suggests that love requires vulnerability and sometimes involves emotional risk, but it is ultimately worth it for the connection it brings. The repeated refrain "That's a lot of love" emphasizes the overwhelming nature of these emotions, which are both beautiful and daunting.

Cyrus also touches on the universal nature of love, seeing it in the eyes of strangers and recognizing the loneliness that often accompanies it. This perspective highlights the shared human experience of seeking connection and the abundance of love that exists in the world, even if it is not always immediately visible. The song's message is one of embracing love in all its forms, acknowledging its power, and accepting the emotional scars it may leave behind, as symbolized by the "XXX" stitches that mend the heart.