The lipstick on his collar

Caro Emerald's song 'The Lipstick on His Collar' delves into the emotional turmoil of a woman who discovers her partner's infidelity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a late-night scene where the protagonist is grappling with the harsh reality of her situation. The clock striking eleven symbolizes a moment of reckoning, where the truth becomes unavoidable. The mention of beer suggests she's trying to numb the pain, but the betrayal is too glaring to ignore. The metaphor of a heart being made of money and her vault being cleaned out poignantly captures the depth of her emotional loss.

The recurring image of the lipstick on his collar that 'doesn't seem to match mine' serves as a powerful symbol of infidelity. It highlights the physical evidence of her partner's unfaithfulness, making the betrayal undeniable. The protagonist's interaction with Joe, the bartender, adds another layer to the narrative. Joe's advice and eye-rolling indicate that this is not the first time she's found herself in this situation, suggesting a pattern of behavior from her partner. Her desire to be more than just a 'weekend dame' underscores her longing for a committed relationship, contrasting sharply with her partner's apparent disregard for her feelings.

The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the protagonist's resignation to her fate. Despite recognizing the betrayal, she finds herself unable to break free from the cycle, as indicated by the line 'he'll be back tomorrow on my heart-beat crash.' The repeated mention of the mismatched lipstick serves as a haunting reminder of her partner's infidelity, leaving her in a state of emotional limbo. Caro Emerald's jazz-influenced style, characterized by its smooth melodies and vintage charm, adds a layer of sophistication to the song, making the tale of heartbreak and betrayal all the more poignant.