Recorded Butterflies

Olivia Lufkin's 'Recorded Butterflies' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of memory, pain, and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and the struggle to hold onto fleeting moments of happiness. The imagery of 'recorded butterflies in the twilight' suggests capturing ephemeral beauty, only to have it slip away, much like memories that are too gentle and cruel ('Kioku wa yasashisugite zankoku'). This duality of tenderness and cruelty is a recurring theme, highlighting the bittersweet nature of cherished memories.

The chorus, with its plea to 'Stay with me tonight,' underscores a deep sense of loneliness and a desire for connection. The tears that 'shine in the sky' and the 'diamond drops' that reflect the eyes evoke a sense of precious yet painful emotions. These metaphors suggest that the protagonist's tears are both beautiful and sorrowful, reflecting a complex emotional state. The repeated request for companionship in the face of overwhelming emotions ('Hold me') further emphasizes the need for solace and understanding.

The song also explores the act of burying pain, as seen in the lines 'I bury it in the back garden, cover it with sticks and leaves.' This metaphorical burial represents an attempt to hide and suppress emotional pain, only for it to resurface in the form of 'pink avalanches' that crash down and seal the protagonist's eyelids. The imagery of a frozen heart ('Kogoeta mama no my heart') suggests a state of emotional numbness, further highlighting the struggle to cope with deep-seated pain. Overall, 'Recorded Butterflies' is a poignant exploration of the delicate balance between holding onto beautiful memories and the pain they can bring.