Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: garage
Song Meaning of “The Exact Color of Doubt” by Liars
The Exact Color of Doubt reflects on the struggles and uncertainty that come with a toxic relationship. It discusses the difficulty in trusting the other person in the relationship as both parties are harboring doubts and mistrust. The narrator feels like they have to constantly question the authenticity of their lover’s intentions. The lyrics “we lay waiting to be revealed, through the shadow of our disbelief” paints a vivid image of two lovers in distrust, waiting for the other to make a slip up, or be exposed of their true motives.
The narrator attempts to break away from this unhealthy relationship, but can’t quite shake off his doubts and suspicions. He fears that he cannot break away completely without getting hurt. He wonders what he would gain if he stayed, but is left in limbo. He ponders if he should just call it quits and be done with the pain and the doubts that cloud their love.
The track’s chorus resounds his fear that the relationship may already be too far gone. He worries that it is not what it used to be and his defeat is reflected in the line “the exact color of doubt has died in my mouth”. This illustrates his reluctance to keep on going, as the exact color that once kept him going is gone. The track’s outro speaks to how he is finally coming to terms with the fact that his time with his significant other has come to an end. He expresses his sadness, but also his newfound liberation in the lines “I’m no longer lost in the silence, and I’m no longer listening out for the sound of your voice”. The Exact Color of Doubt serves as a reminder of the fragility and uncertainty of all relationships.