Bulletproof... I Wish I Was

The song 'Bulletproof... I Wish I Was' by Radiohead is a poignant expression of vulnerability and the desire for emotional resilience. The lyrics convey a sense of being overwhelmed and damaged by external forces, as suggested by the imagery of being torn apart 'limb by limb, tooth by tooth.' The repetition of 'every day, every hour' emphasizes the constant and relentless nature of this emotional struggle.

The chorus 'I wish that I was bulletproof' is a metaphor for wishing to be impervious to pain and hurt, whether it be emotional or physical. The use of 'wax me, mould me' suggests a loss of agency, with the speaker being shaped and manipulated by others, further highlighted by the violent imagery of 'heat the pins and stab them in.' This could be interpreted as a critique of how society or personal relationships can sometimes shape individuals in painful ways.

The final verses introduce the concept of money and taking a shot, which could symbolize the transactional nature of some human interactions and the idea of being filled with something artificial ('Lead-fill the hole in me') to cope with emptiness or pain. The phrase 'I could burst a million bubbles' suggests the fragility of illusions or defenses that one might put up to protect oneself. Ultimately, the song reflects a deep yearning for emotional strength and protection in a world that can often be harsh and unforgiving.