Talking

Elderbrook's song 'Talking' delves into the complexities of relationships and self-awareness. The lyrics reveal a protagonist who is grappling with the realization that their self-centeredness might be affecting their friendships. The opening lines, 'I got a friend but they don't like me / They don't like me like before,' set the stage for a narrative of introspection and regret. The mention of whiskey and drinking suggests that these habits might be contributing to the strain in the relationship, but the protagonist admits to not listening anymore, indicating a deeper issue of self-absorption.

The chorus, 'When I'll do better, to talk about / Anything that you want now / But I should tell you, I love the sound / Of myself when I'm talking,' highlights the protagonist's awareness of their own flaws. They acknowledge the need to be more attentive and considerate, yet they can't help but enjoy the sound of their own voice. This paradox captures the struggle between wanting to improve and being stuck in old habits. The repetition of 'talking, talking, talking' emphasizes the cyclical nature of this behavior, as if the protagonist is trapped in a loop of self-centeredness.

In the second verse, the protagonist reflects on a friend in London, expressing a desire to reconnect but also admitting to being perpetually busy. The idea of bringing flowers or writing a letter symbolizes attempts to mend the relationship, but the underlying issue of self-absorption remains. The song's repetitive structure and introspective lyrics create a poignant commentary on the challenges of balancing self-awareness with genuine connection. Elderbrook's 'Talking' serves as a mirror, reflecting the often-overlooked impact of our actions and words on those around us.