Rotten Apple

Alice In Chains' 'Rotten Apple' is a haunting exploration of disillusionment and the loss of innocence. The song's repetitive structure, with its mantra-like verses, creates a hypnotic effect that mirrors the cyclical nature of despair and regret. The opening lines, 'Innocence is over,' set the tone for a journey through various stages of realization and the consequences of actions taken.

The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who has experienced the darker side of life, symbolized by the 'eating of the apple,' which is a clear reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve and the original sin that led to the fall of man. This metaphor extends to the idea of gaining knowledge that leads to the corruption of innocence. The protagonist in the song seems to be grappling with the aftermath of such knowledge, leading to broken confidence, stolen sustenance, and potent arrogance. These themes are indicative of a person who has been through trials that have left them jaded and cynical.

The chorus, 'Yeah, what I see is unreal, I've written my own part,' suggests a sense of personal responsibility and the realization that one's choices contribute to their current state. The phrase 'crawling back to start' implies a desire to return to a state of innocence, or at least to a time before the metaphorical apple was eaten. However, there's a sense of futility and resignation that permeates the song, as if the singer acknowledges that such a return is impossible. The song's dark and brooding tone, characteristic of Alice In Chains' grunge style, underscores the themes of regret and the longing for redemption that may be out of reach.