Drawing Pins

Nothing But Thieves' song 'Drawing Pins' delves into the emotional turmoil of feeling out of place and the desperate search for understanding and acceptance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with internal conflict and external pressures. The opening lines, 'Every light is blinding / Every minute lasts all day,' set the tone for a narrative steeped in anxiety and disorientation. The metaphor of being 'held down by drawing pins' suggests a painful, immobilizing experience, where even the smallest actions cause discomfort and hinder progress.

The recurring plea, 'What you did it for / 'Cause I, I, I can't figure it out,' underscores a sense of confusion and betrayal. The protagonist is seeking answers, trying to make sense of actions that have left them feeling isolated and misunderstood. This quest for clarity is further emphasized by the line, 'What do I have to do / To be loved, loved by you,' highlighting a deep-seated need for validation and connection. The mention of Crowley, a reference to the infamous occultist Aleister Crowley, adds a layer of mysticism and a desire for some form of magical intervention to alleviate their suffering.

The song's structure, with its repetitive questioning and haunting melodies, mirrors the cyclical nature of the protagonist's thoughts. They are trapped in a loop of seeking answers and feeling the sting of rejection. The phrase 'lights are on but no one's in' poignantly captures the sense of emptiness and disconnection, suggesting that despite being physically present, the protagonist feels mentally and emotionally absent. 'Drawing Pins' is a powerful exploration of the human need for belonging and the pain that comes with feeling perpetually out of place.