Fallen Fruit

Lorde's 'Fallen Fruit' is a poignant reflection on the disillusionment and loss experienced by a generation that inherited grand dreams and promises from their predecessors. The song opens with a tribute to 'the ones who came before us,' the 'golden ones' who were 'lifted on a wing.' This imagery evokes a sense of reverence for the past generations who seemed to have everything figured out, living in a time of prosperity and hope. However, Lorde quickly juxtaposes this with the realization that the dreams they passed down were 'far too big,' hinting at the unattainable expectations and the subsequent disillusionment faced by the current generation.

The recurring motif of 'fallen fruit' serves as a powerful metaphor for these shattered dreams and lost opportunities. The apple trees, often symbolizing knowledge and temptation, now bear fallen fruit, suggesting that the once-promising future has decayed. The imagery of 'psychedelic garlands' and 'halls of splendor' adds a surreal, almost nostalgic quality to the song, as if reminiscing about a time that was never fully realized. The line 'you'll leave us dancing on the fallen fruit' captures a sense of futile celebration amidst the ruins of what could have been, highlighting the bittersweet nature of holding onto hope in the face of inevitable loss.

Lorde also touches on themes of escape and resignation. The references to 'the nissan, to the phantom, to the plane' suggest a journey or an attempt to flee from the harsh realities. Yet, there's an underlying sense of inevitability, as they 'disappear in the cover of the rain,' symbolizing a retreat into obscurity. The song's closing lines, 'how can I love what I know I am going to lose? Don't make me choose,' encapsulate the emotional turmoil of loving something that is destined to fade away. This sentiment resonates deeply with the listener, evoking a sense of shared melancholy and introspection.