Artefact

Phoenix's song 'Artefact' delves into the complex emotions of searching for remnants of oneself in the aftermath of a relationship. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, painting a vivid picture of longing and introspection. The recurring line, 'I'm looking for an artefact,' symbolizes the quest to find a piece of oneself that remains intact after emotional turmoil. This artefact represents a fragment of the past that still holds significance and can attract the attention of a former lover, suggesting a desire to reconnect with what once was.

The song's verses explore the timeline of a relationship, from its inception to its dissolution. Phrases like 'Before you were born, before we were one' and 'Before you were loose' reflect on the early stages of the relationship, filled with hope and unity. As the narrative progresses, the tone shifts to one of regret and realization, with lines such as 'I’d leave it alone, I’d deleted it all, because it was true.' This indicates a painful acceptance of the relationship's end and the emotional baggage that comes with it.

Cultural references, such as 'Over Nova Scotia' and 'I'm no Rubirosa,' add layers to the song's meaning. Nova Scotia could symbolize a distant, unreachable place, while Rubirosa, a famous playboy, contrasts with the singer's own feelings of inadequacy and loss. The repeated mention of rumors and the color blue further emphasize the themes of sadness and uncertainty. Ultimately, 'Artefact' is a poignant exploration of the remnants of love and the struggle to find meaning and identity in its wake.