Alison

Green Day's song 'Alison' is a poignant narrative about a chance encounter with a past lover. The lyrics capture the complex emotions that arise when seeing someone who once meant a lot to you but has since moved on. The opening lines set the stage for an awkward reunion, where the protagonist notices that Alison is unimpressed and has moved on with her life. The mention of a 'little friend' taking off her 'party dress' hints at past infidelities or betrayals, adding a layer of bitterness to the encounter.

The song's chorus, 'Alison, I know this world is killing you,' reveals a deep sense of empathy and concern for Alison's well-being. Despite the emotional distance and the passage of time, the protagonist's feelings for Alison remain 'true.' This line suggests that the world has been harsh to Alison, and the protagonist wishes he could offer some form of solace or protection. The phrase 'my aim is true' could be interpreted as a declaration of genuine, unwavering affection, even if it is no longer reciprocated.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that Alison has moved on, now married, but perhaps not happily. The imagery of her 'pretty fingers lying in the wedding cake' and the suggestion that her husband 'took all he could take' imply a sense of disillusionment in her current relationship. The protagonist's wish to 'stop you from talking' and 'put out the big light' indicates his discomfort with seeing Alison in a state that contrasts sharply with his memories of her. The song ends on a note of unresolved tension, leaving listeners to ponder the complexities of love, loss, and the passage of time.