Lately I’ve been seeing things
Belly button piercings
In the sky at night
When we’re side by side
And I don’t mean to rain on anybody’s cabriolet
One of those games you’re gonna lose
But you wanna play it just in case
Now it’s getting dark and the sky looks sticky
More like black treacle than tar
Black treacle
Somebody told the stars you’re not coming out tonight
And so they found a place to hide
Does it help you stay up late?
Does it help you concentrate?
Does it tune you in when you chew your chin?
Am I ruining your fun?
And you talk the talk alright
But do you walk the walk or catch the train?
You wanted it, you got it
But you don’t want it now
Now it’s getting dark and the sky looks sticky
More like black treacle than tar
Black treacle
Somebody told the stars you’re not coming out tonight
And so they found a place to hide
And now I’m out of place and I’m not getting any wiser
I feel like the sundance kid behind the synthesiser
And I tried last night to pack away a laugh
Like a key under the mat
But it never seems to be there when you want it
Black treacle
Black treacle
Black treacle
Exploring the Dreamlike Imagery of “Black Treacle”
“Black Treacle” by Arctic Monkeys weaves a tapestry of surreal visuals and wistful sentiments, immersing listeners in a world tinged with nostalgia and longing. The song’s lyrics evoke scenes of nighttime introspection, where strange sights—like belly button piercings in the sky—blend with the sticky darkness described as “black treacle.” This metaphor casts the night as something both sweet and suffocating, reflecting a sense of romantic melancholy and confusion. The recurring motif of hiding and missed connections, as well as the playful questioning of desires and intentions, creates a mood of bittersweet yearning. Ultimately, the song balances playful wordplay with deep emotional undercurrents, inviting listeners to find their own meaning in its enigmatic lines.
Song Credits
- Artist: Arctic Monkeys
- Songwriters: Alex Turner
- Release Year: 2011
- Label: Domino Recording Company