JAPANESE WHISKEY

Ruel's song "JAPANESE WHISKEY" delves into the complexities of a relationship that is both intoxicating and unfulfilling. The song opens with a vivid scene of the narrator and their partner drinking Japanese whiskey, a metaphor for the exotic and perhaps superficial allure of their relationship. The whiskey, brought home by the partner's father from Tokyo, symbolizes something foreign and intriguing, yet ultimately unsatisfying. The narrator admits to not liking the taste but stays for the experience, highlighting a sense of obligation and the desire to fit into a role that doesn't come naturally.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the relationship is fraught with emotional distance. The line "Seems like the closer I hold you, the colder it feels" poignantly captures the paradox of intimacy that feels isolating. This sentiment is further emphasized by the realization that they "only fall in love with things that ain’t really real," suggesting a pattern of idealizing relationships that cannot meet their emotional needs. The narrator's struggle to be what their partner wants, while acknowledging their own limitations, adds a layer of vulnerability and self-awareness.

The chorus and subsequent verses reveal a deeper emotional struggle. The narrator keeps their past "behind glass," indicating a protective barrier around their true self, while their partner remains indifferent. The repeated imagery of swallowing "bitter words" and the indecision about whether they like it or just can't let go, underscores the internal conflict and the painful acceptance of a love that is more about appearances than genuine connection. Ruel's poignant lyrics and emotive delivery make "JAPANESE WHISKEY" a compelling exploration of the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled love and the human tendency to cling to illusions.