Newspaper

Fiona Apple's song 'Newspaper' delves into the complex emotions and relationships entangled with a manipulative and toxic figure. The lyrics reveal a narrative of two women who have both been involved with the same man, experiencing similar mistreatment and emotional manipulation. The protagonist reflects on her past desire for the man's approval, which eventually turned into a longing for him to make amends for his wrongdoings. This shared experience creates an unspoken bond between the two women, even though the man has driven a wedge between them with lies and deceit.

The song's chorus emphasizes the protagonist's feelings of closeness to the other woman, despite the man's efforts to keep them apart. This connection is paradoxically strengthened by witnessing the man's abusive behavior towards the other woman. The protagonist's empathy and understanding of the other woman's plight create a sense of solidarity, even though they are kept at a distance. The repeated lines, 'It makes me feel close to you,' highlight this emotional connection and the frustration of being unable to intervene or support each other openly.

Fiona Apple's poetic lyrics also touch on themes of isolation and resilience. The imagery of wearing 'time like a flowery crown' and being 'alone on the summit' suggests a sense of enduring the passage of time and the weight of their experiences. The protagonist's struggle to keep her 'light' from going out symbolizes her determination to maintain her sense of self and hope despite the emotional turmoil. The song ultimately portrays the pain of being manipulated and the strength found in shared suffering, even when direct communication and support are impossible.