Carrion

Fiona Apple's song 'Carrion' delves into the emotional complexities of a relationship that has reached its end. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, painting a picture of love that has decayed beyond repair. The repeated phrase 'Honey, I've gone away' signifies a definitive departure, both physically and emotionally, from a relationship that can no longer be salvaged. Apple's use of the word 'carrion'—which refers to the decaying flesh of dead animals—serves as a powerful metaphor for the love that once was but is now irreparably damaged.

The song opens with a series of negations, emphasizing the futility of trying to revive what is already lost. 'Won't do no good to hold no seance' and 'Won't do no good to hold no searchlight' suggest that no amount of effort or longing can bring back the past. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where Apple explores the themes of acceptance and the inevitability of moving on. The line 'You can't illuminate what time has anchored down' poignantly captures the idea that some things are beyond our control and must be left behind.

In the chorus, Apple reveals the emotional decay she feels: 'My feel for you, boy, is decaying in front of me / Like the carrion of a murdered prey.' This stark imagery underscores the depth of her disillusionment and the finality of her decision. Despite her desire to 'save' her partner or find the 'strength to walk away,' she acknowledges that the relationship is beyond saving. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics make it a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the painful process of letting go.