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Meaning of Small Time Shot Away - Massive Attack

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The English musical group Massive Attack has long been recognized for their innovative and thought-provoking music. In their song "Small Time Shot Away," the band delves into themes of relationship dynamics and the passage of time. This article aims to explore the meaning behind these lyrics, focusing on the narratives and underlying themes.

The lyrics of "Small Time Shot Away" revolve around a tumultuous relationship where two individuals are drawn to each other despite their mutual destructiveness. The opening lines "[3D:] Took her in Dropped a line Turned me on," suggest an initial attraction, followed by the recognition that they cannot leave each other as "We never leave each other cause we leave each other so cold." This paradoxical situation is further highlighted with the repetition of "It's wartime every time" – implying that their relationship is a constant battleground.

A significant theme in "Small Time Shot Away" is the struggle to connect and find stability in relationships. The lyrics "[She cut me a line and she turned me on] She made it cool You couldn't do it if you wanted to," convey a deep, almost addictive connection between the two individuals that transcends their destructiveness. Another theme is the passage of time, with lines such as "Its wartime every time Small talk every time" emphasizing the monotony and familiarity that can come with long-term relationships.

In essence, "Small Time Shot Away" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of relationships, where love and destruction coexist. The repetition of lines like "It's wartime every time" and "Small talk every time" highlights both the allure and the pain that can come with long-term partnerships. Furthermore, the use of phrases such as "favourite chloroform," "pillow talk," and "get it out the way," suggest a deep intimacy that borders on unhealthy obsession.

The song's introspective lyrics can resonate with listeners who have experienced tumultuous relationships, making it a universally relatable piece. The lines "[She made it cool] You couldn't do it if you wanted to" can be seen as a reminder that sometimes, despite the challenges and pain in a relationship, the connection between two people is strong enough to endure.

Massive Attack's poetic lyrics in "Small Time Shot Away" have the power to evoke strong emotions and create vivid mental imagery for listeners. The use of military metaphors like "wartime every time," underscores the idea that relationships can be a battlefield, where both love and destruction coexist. Furthermore, the cultural references in the lyrics, such as "friction wound" and "ricochet," add layers of depth to the song's meaning.

In conclusion, "Small Time Shot Away" by Massive Attack is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged exploration of relationships and the passage of time. Through poetic lyrics, the band masterfully weaves together themes of connection, destruction, and introspection to create an engaging and universally relatable piece of music.

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