You choke my throat with words of wonder
You make it hard to breathe
Your love’s so cold, just like an arrow
Pierced through my skin, I bleed
I knew you were no angel
But God, what did I do?
Do you remember what I said that first time we met?
Stay away, why couldn’t you stay away?
I never needed anyone, but now that you are gone
Stay away, won’t you just stay away?
Taking all my light and blocking out my vision
Bad little girl you have trapped in the prison
On my hands, on my knees, pulled on the chains
Licking up the blood, yeah, I made this decision
You took my light
Trapped in the prison
You threw away the key
You are the curse, I am the captive
Walking on hands and knees
Never learn, never learn
Never learn, never learn
You were no angel
But God, you’re just electric blue
Do you remember what I said that first time we met?
Stay away, why couldn’t you stay away?
I never needed anyone, but now that you are gone
Stay away, won’t you just stay away?
Stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away
Stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away
Stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away
Stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away, stay away
I climbed a wall to touch your shadow
I hear you call for me
But you’re not there, you’re just an echo
Why did you fall for me?
Do you remember what I said that first time we met?
Stay away, why couldn’t you stay away?
I never needed anyone, but now that you are gone
Stay away, won’t you just stay away?
Taking all my light and blocking out my vision
Bad little girl you have trapped in the prison
Won’t you just stay away?
Unraveling Emotional Barriers
“Stay Away” by Charli XCX delves into the complexities of toxic love and the struggle to break free from its grip. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that is both intoxicating and destructive, where love feels more like a prison than a sanctuary. Charli’s expressive delivery captures the turmoil of being drawn to someone harmful, despite knowing the dangers. The repeated plea to “stay away” reflects a desire for liberation, contrasted with the lingering attachment that makes moving on so difficult.
Vivid Imagery and Vulnerability
The song’s language is rich with imagery—references to chains, prisons, and bleeding wounds evoke a sense of entrapment and emotional pain. The mention of “electric blue” adds a unique twist, suggesting an allure that is both captivating and dangerous. Through these metaphors, Charli XCX explores the paradox of craving distance while feeling haunted by memories of the person she wishes to forget.
Song Credits: “Stay Away” is performed by Charli XCX. The song was written by Charlotte Aitchison (Charli XCX), Ariel Rechtshaid, and Justin Raisen. It was released in 2011.