Paper Cuts
Paper Cuts

Nirvana - Paper Cuts Lyrics

Imagine being trapped in a dark, neglected space, yearning for freedom. It's an intense depiction of isolation and distress. The narrator seems to be confined, possibly by a maternal figure who can't meet their gaze, suggesting deep psychological or emotional… Read more

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Paper Cuts Music Video

Paper Cuts Lyrics

At my feeding time
She'd push food through the door
I crawl towards the crack of light
Sometimes I can't find my way
Newspapers spread around
Soaking all that they can
A cleaning is due again
A good hosing down

The lady whom I feel maternal love for
Cannot look me in the eyes
But I see hers and they are blue
And they cock and twist and masturbate

Why? I said so
I said so
I said so
Nirvana, nirvana, nirvana, nirvana

Black windows of paint
I scratch with my nails
I see others just like me
Why do they not try to escape?
They bring out the older ones
They point at my way
They come with their flashing lights
And take my family away

And very later I have learned to
Accept some friends of ridicule
My whole existence is for your amusement
And that is why I'm here with you

To take you me with
Your life
Nirvana, nirvana, nirvana, nirvana
Nirvana, nirvana, nirvana, nirvana

Writer(s): Kurt Cobain
Copyright(s): Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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What is the Meaning of Paper Cuts?

Imagine being trapped in a dark, neglected space, yearning for freedom. It's an intense depiction of isolation and distress. The narrator seems to be confined, possibly by a maternal figure who can't meet their gaze, suggesting deep psychological or emotional distance. Surroundings are grim, with newspapers absorbing filth and black-painted windows symbolizing blocked hope or clarity. The reference to others in similar positions but not escaping reflects normalized despair, while the older ones are taken away, hinting at inevitable doom. The protagonist's resignation to being a source of ridicule and amusement for others adds layers of existential pain. It’s a dive into the anguish of feeling imprisoned, both physically and mentally, resonating with themes of abandonment and societal alienation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What inspired Kurt Cobain to write 'Paper Cuts'?

    Kurt Cobain was inspired by a real-life story of a family in his hometown of Aberdeen, Washington, who kept their children locked up and abused them. One of the siblings was an acquaintance of Cobain.

  2. Is 'Paper Cuts' the only Nirvana song that mentions the word 'nirvana' in its lyrics?

    Yes, 'Paper Cuts' is the only Nirvana song where Kurt Cobain utters the word 'nirvana,' doing so after the first verse and again at the end.

  3. On which album was 'Paper Cuts' originally released?

    'Paper Cuts' was part of Nirvana's debut album, 'Bleach,' which was released in 1989 by Sub Pop.

  4. Who played drums on the song 'Paper Cuts'?

    While Chad Channing was Nirvana's drummer during the 'Bleach' sessions, the version of 'Paper Cuts' on the album features Melvins drummer Dale Crover, as his earlier recorded version was remixed for the final album.

  5. Why was the song 'Big Long Now' omitted from the 'Bleach' album?

    Kurt Cobain felt that 'Bleach' already contained enough slow, heavy songs, and he didn't want 'Big Long Now' to be included in the album.

  6. How did the song 'Paper Cuts' perform commercially?

    'Paper Cuts' and the album 'Bleach' initially received little attention. However, after Nirvana's breakthrough with their next album, 'Nevermind,' 'Bleach' sold well over a million copies.

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