Older

Lizzy McAlpine's song 'Older' delves into the complexities of growing up and the emotional turbulence that accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a carousel ride, symbolizing the repetitive and often dizzying nature of life's challenges. The imagery of paying for a ticket and watching the red Moon climb suggests a sense of inevitability and the passage of time, while the feeling of being 'sick to my stomach' and 'stuck in a loop' captures the anxiety and helplessness that can come with life's uncertainties.

The song's chorus reveals a deep sense of longing and regret. McAlpine reflects on her expectations versus reality, expressing a wish for strength and clarity. The lines 'Thought it'd be over by now' and 'Wish I was stronger somehow' highlight the internal struggle of dealing with unresolved issues and the desire for an easier path. This introspection is further emphasized by the repeated wish to know 'what the end is,' indicating a yearning for closure and understanding.

In the second verse, McAlpine touches on the theme of time and its impact on relationships. The mention of her mother getting older and the desire to return to a time 'where no one is dying, and no one is hurt' underscores the inevitable changes and losses that come with aging. The regret of not being 'good to you instead of making it worse' adds a layer of personal accountability and sorrow, making the song a poignant reflection on the passage of time, personal growth, and the bittersweet nature of life.