Formaldehyde (or Methanal) is a colorless gas with a pungent, irritating odor. Its main application is as a disinfectant. In view of its widespread use and toxicity, exposure to formaldehyde is a significant consideration for human health. Lead singer Tom Smith described this track as, "a love song. A sugar coated, dissected heart in a jar, blood soaked love song."
Q magazine asked Smith what he would say to his two young children if they started asking why he is singing about chopping up bodies on this song? He replied: "I would explain it's still a love song. It's saying, 'I belong to you, do with me what you will'– that is a loving sentiment, just wrapped up in something scary.'"
