Falling And Laughing

Orange Juice's song 'Falling And Laughing' delves into the complexities of human emotions, particularly the interplay between joy and sorrow. The lyrics reflect a sense of naivety and vulnerability, as the narrator admits to seeing only what they want to see and avoiding eye contact. This suggests a reluctance to face reality and a preference for living in a self-constructed world of selective perception. The desire to see someone smile at them indicates a longing for connection and validation, yet there's an underlying fear of rejection or disappointment.

The recurring theme of tears and loneliness is poignant. The narrator acknowledges their solitude and the comfort they find in their own tears, which 'satisfy the real need of my heart.' This line reveals a deep emotional need that is met only through their own sorrow, suggesting a complex relationship with their feelings. The idea of building a 'city of tears' symbolizes a place where sadness is a shared and accepted experience, yet the narrator resists this notion, indicating a struggle between embracing their pain and seeking happiness.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'falling and laughing,' encapsulates the duality of experiencing both pleasure and pain. The act of falling represents vulnerability and the inevitability of experiencing pain, while laughing signifies a resilient and perhaps defiant response to it. This juxtaposition highlights the human capacity to find joy even in moments of despair, and the acceptance that both emotions are integral parts of life. The song ultimately portrays a journey of self-discovery and the bittersweet nature of love and loneliness, where the narrator learns to embrace their emotions fully, finding strength in their vulnerability.