Intergenerational Trauma and Self-Reflection
"Apple," a standout track from Charli XCX's "BRAT," masterfully navigates the intricate theme of intergenerational trauma with a unique blend of introspection and defiance. The song delves into Charli's complicated relationship with her parents, exploring the inherited traits, both positive and negative, that have shaped her identity.
Symbolism and Themes
Through vivid imagery and evocative lyrics, Charli paints a picture of grappling with the past while striving for a future free from the burdens of inherited pain. The metaphor of the apple, symbolizing both the familial connection and the cyclical nature of trauma, is cleverly interwoven throughout the song. Charli's desire to "throw the apple into the sky" signifies her yearning for liberation and the breaking of generational curses.
Musical Style
Musically, "Apple" showcases Charli's signature electro-pop style with pulsating synths, driving beats, and ethereal vocals. The repetition of the phrase "the airport" reinforces the yearning for escape and new beginnings. The song's outro, filled with questions directed towards the parental figures, evokes a sense of longing for understanding and connection.
Charli XCX Apple Review
In essence, "Apple" is a poignant reflection on the complex journey of self-discovery and healing. Charli's vulnerability and candidness in addressing intergenerational trauma make this track a powerful and relatable listening experience. It stands as a testament to her artistry and ability to tackle challenging themes with emotional depth and a captivating musical landscape.
Listen to Charli XCX Apple
Charli XCX Apple Lyrics Meaning Explained
The meaning of "Apple" by Charli XCX is a poignant exploration of intergenerational trauma, self-discovery, and the complex dynamics of familial relationships. The song delves into the singer's reflections on inherited traits and behaviors, acknowledging both the positive and negative aspects of her lineage. The apple serves as a metaphor for this inheritance.
Verse 1: Recognizing Familial Patterns
In the first verse, the lyrics "I guess the apple don't fall far from the tree / 'Cause I've been looking at you so long / Now I only see me" establish the central theme of the song. Charli recognizes the similarities between herself and her parent(s), suggesting that she has inherited certain characteristics, both good and bad. The desire to "throw the apple into the sky" represents a yearning to break free from these inherited patterns and forge her own path.
Verse 2: Complexities of Familial Relationships
The second verse further explores the complexities of familial relationships, acknowledging the nuances and multifaceted nature of individuals. The line "I wanna grow the apple, keep all the seeds" indicates a desire to nurture and preserve the positive aspects of her heritage, while the following lines "But I can't help but get so angry / You don't listen, I leave to the airport" express the frustration and desire for escape stemming from a lack of understanding or communication.
Verse 3: Intergenerational Trauma
The third verse delves deeper into the theme of intergenerational trauma, suggesting that the "apple's rotten right to the core" due to the burdens passed down through generations. The act of splitting the apple "down symmetrical lines" symbolizes a self-examination that reveals uncomfortable truths and intensifies the urge to escape.
Outro: Longing for Connection
The outro reinforces the song's emotional core, with Charli repeatedly asking "I wanna know where you go / When you're feeling alone?" This expresses a longing for connection and understanding, a desire to know how her parent(s) cope with their own emotions and struggles. It hints at a hope for reconciliation or at least a deeper understanding of each other's experiences.
Charli XCX Apple Lyrics
[Verse 1]
I guess the apple don't fall far from the tree
'Cause I've been looking at you so long
Now I only see me
I wanna throw the apple into the sky
Feels like you never understand me
So I just wanna drive to the airport
The airport, the airport, the airport
[Verse 2]
I guess the apple could turn yellow or green
I know there's lots of different nuances
To you and to me
I wanna grow the apple, keep all the seeds
But I can't help but get so angry
You don't listen, I leave to the airport
The airport, the airport, the airport, the airport
The airport, the airport, the airport
[Interlude]
I'm gonna drive, gonna drive all night
I'm gonna drive, gonna drive all night
[Verse 3]
I think the apple's rotten right to the core
From all the things passed down
From all the apples coming before
I split the apple down symmetrical lines
And what I find is kinda scary
Makes me just wanna drive
(Drive, drive, drive, dr-dr-dr-drive, drive, drive)
(I'm gonna drive, gonna drive all night)
(I'm gonna drive, gonna drive all night)
(Drive, drive, drive, dr-dr-dr-drive, drive, drive)
[Outro]
I wanna know where you go
When you're feeling alone
When you're feeling alone, do you?
I wanna know where you go
When you're feeling alone
When you're feeling alone, do you?
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you, do you, do you)
(Do you, do you)