Substitute

Frank Turner's song "Substitute" delves into the complexities of love and the solace he finds in music. The lyrics narrate the stories of two significant relationships in his life, each marked by unfulfilled desires and emotional turmoil. The first girl he fell for was a passionate idealist, whose dedication to her causes overshadowed her ability to reciprocate his feelings. Despite his efforts to support her, their relationship ended, leaving him to express his emotions through songwriting. This narrative highlights the struggle of loving someone whose priorities lie elsewhere, and the pain of unrequited love.

The second relationship Turner describes is with a woman who was captivating yet deceitful. Her allure and the intensity of their connection were marred by her infidelity, leading to heartbreak and isolation. Turner’s attempt to capture his feelings in music once again proved futile in salvaging the relationship. This part of the song underscores the theme of betrayal and the longing for genuine affection, which remains unmet despite his creative expressions.

Throughout the song, Turner reflects on his reliance on music as a substitute for the love he yearns for but cannot seem to attain. He acknowledges that while music provides comfort and a means to process his emotions, it cannot replace the intimacy and connection of a loving relationship. The final verse poignantly captures his resignation to this reality, as he finds solace in his guitar but still dreams of experiencing true love. Turner's candid storytelling and emotive lyrics resonate with anyone who has sought refuge in art amidst the trials of love.