Torch

Alanis Morissette's song 'Torch' is a poignant reflection on loss and the process of mourning a past relationship. The lyrics are a raw and intimate inventory of the things Morissette misses about her former partner, from the mundane to the profound. The repeated phrase 'I miss' emphasizes the longing and the void that the absence of her loved one has created in her life. The song captures the essence of grief that comes with the end of a significant relationship, where even the smallest memories can evoke a deep sense of yearning.

The chorus of 'Torch' speaks to the resilience required to face such a profound loss. The 'torch' in the song symbolizes the passion and love that was once a guiding light in her life. Laying it down suggests a reluctant acceptance of the end of the relationship and the need to move forward. The phrase 'These are not times for the weak of heart' underscores the strength needed to endure the pain of separation and the 'raw despondence' that accompanies it. Morissette's use of the word 'despondence' conveys a deep emotional state that is beyond mere sadness, touching on a sense of hopelessness and despair.

The song also touches on the theme of moving on, as indicated by the line 'One step one prayer I soldier on, simulating moving on.' This line reveals the struggle of continuing life without the person she loves, and the act of 'simulating' suggests that while she may be going through the motions, her heart is still with what she has lost. The song is a testament to the enduring impact of love and the difficulty of letting go, even when one knows it is necessary.