Brick

Ben Folds Five's song 'Brick' is a poignant narrative that delves into the emotional turmoil and isolation experienced by a young couple facing an unplanned pregnancy and subsequent abortion. The song opens with a vivid scene set the day after Christmas, capturing the cold, bleak atmosphere that mirrors the protagonist's internal numbness. The early morning drive to his girlfriend's apartment, where her parents are absent, sets the stage for the unfolding emotional struggle.

The chorus, 'She's a brick and I'm drownin' slowly,' serves as a powerful metaphor for the overwhelming burden the protagonist feels. The 'brick' symbolizes the weight of the situation and the emotional heaviness of his girlfriend's state, which is dragging him down. Despite having found someone, he feels more isolated than ever, highlighting the paradox of being in a relationship yet feeling profoundly alone. This sense of isolation is further emphasized when he paces around the parking lot, buys her flowers, and sells his Christmas gifts, actions that underscore his helplessness and desperation.

As the song progresses, the emotional strain becomes more evident. The weeks pass, and it becomes clear that his girlfriend is not coping well. The line 'Son, it's time to tell the truth' suggests a confrontation with reality, leading to a mutual breakdown. The final verse, where they are alone together yet still feel isolated, encapsulates the song's core theme of shared yet solitary suffering. 'Brick' is a haunting exploration of the complexities of young love, the weight of difficult decisions, and the profound sense of loneliness that can accompany shared trauma.