Cherry On Top

Oh Land's 'Cherry On Top' delves into the relentless pursuit of perfection and the insatiable desire for more, symbolized by the metaphor of the 'cherry on top.' The song opens with vivid imagery of a 'small boy' with 'big teeth,' suggesting an innocent yet voracious appetite for life. This is juxtaposed with the idea of 'small world, big dreams,' highlighting the contrast between humble beginnings and grand aspirations. The mention of 'spilling ink on your life' evokes the idea of making mistakes or leaving a mark, while the 'champagne’s raining on your window' and 'dream house built inside a snow globe' paint a picture of superficial success that ultimately feels empty and isolating.

The recurring plea to 'slow down' serves as a poignant reminder to take a step back and appreciate the present moment. The chorus emphasizes the futility of constantly striving for that 'cherry on top,' a metaphor for the ultimate, yet often unattainable, goal. The lyrics suggest that no matter how much one achieves, it will never be enough to fill the void or 'hole' within. This theme is further explored in the second verse, where the imagery of a 'freight train spinning out of control' and 'waiting at every station' underscores the chaotic and unending nature of this pursuit.

The song also touches on the idea of missed opportunities and unnoticed efforts, as seen in the lines 'I’ve been waiting at every station, you didn’t notice at all.' The search for a 'rose without a thorn' symbolizes the quest for perfection, which is inherently flawed because perfection itself is an illusion. The 'calm before the storm' and 'missed the drops' suggest that the warning signs of impending failure or dissatisfaction are often overlooked in the relentless chase for more. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, 'Cherry On Top' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of never being content and the importance of slowing down to appreciate what one already has.