Eugene

Arlo Parks' song 'Eugene' delves into the complex emotions of unrequited love and the pain of seeing a close friend with someone else. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a deep, long-standing friendship that becomes complicated by romantic feelings. The dream of a kiss described as 'all amethyst' and the 'violet' underpart of the eyes suggest a surreal, almost magical connection, yet one that remains unfulfilled in reality. The imagery of 'purple lips' and 'cigarette' adds a layer of melancholy and longing, setting the tone for the emotional journey that follows.

The narrative reveals a friendship that has endured since the age of thirteen, marked by shared experiences and mutual support. The protagonist's role in comforting their friend, even holding their head back when they're too drunk, underscores the depth of their bond. However, the introduction of Eugene, a new romantic interest, disrupts this dynamic. The protagonist's feelings of jealousy and betrayal are palpable, especially when they see their friend sharing intimate moments and personal interests, like reading Sylvia Plath, with Eugene. This sense of loss is compounded by the realization that their romantic feelings are not reciprocated, leading to a painful internal conflict.

The repeated refrain, 'I know I've been a little bit off and that's my mistake,' highlights the protagonist's struggle to reconcile their emotions. They acknowledge their own confusion and misplaced feelings, yet can't help but blame their friend for the heartache. The song captures the bittersweet nature of unspoken love and the difficulty of maintaining a platonic relationship when deeper feelings are involved. Arlo Parks' poignant lyrics and emotive delivery make 'Eugene' a relatable and touching exploration of love, friendship, and the complexities that arise when the two intertwine.