Ruins

Jen Ledger's song 'Ruins' delves into the complex emotions of love and heartbreak, capturing the paradoxical nature of a relationship that is both destructive and irresistible. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of vulnerability and the struggle to protect oneself from further pain. The opening lines, 'Just stay there for a minute / And just don't move any closer,' set the tone for the internal conflict the narrator feels. They are torn between the desire to let someone in and the fear of being hurt again, a sentiment echoed in the lines, 'Brick by brick and scar by scar / It's taking me years to put up these guards.'

The chorus reveals the depth of the narrator's emotional turmoil, describing themselves as 'broken' and 'in pieces on the floor.' The damage inflicted by love is described as 'irreparable,' yet there is a yearning for the same love that caused the pain. This contradiction is central to the song's theme, highlighting the addictive nature of a love that is both devastating and essential. The plea, 'Won't you ruin me again?' encapsulates this duality, suggesting that the narrator finds a twisted sense of completeness in their brokenness.

Ledger's use of metaphors like 'violent like a tidal wave' and 'shattered in a hurricane' emphasizes the overwhelming and uncontrollable force of love. Despite the chaos and destruction, there is a sense of acceptance and even longing for this tumultuous love. The line, 'Your love is different / That holds me through it / I'm perfectly ruined,' suggests that the narrator finds a unique and profound connection in this imperfect love. The song ultimately portrays love as a powerful force that can both destroy and complete, leaving the listener to ponder the complexities of their own relationships.