Flame Trees

Sarah Blasko's rendition of 'Flame Trees' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, heartache, and the passage of time. The song's protagonist returns to their hometown, a place steeped in shared history and familiar sights. As they drive through the town, they are overwhelmed by memories of a past love and the life they once knew. The flame trees, a recurring motif in the song, symbolize both the beauty and the pain of these memories, blinding the weary driver with their vividness and intensity.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's attempts to reconnect with old friends and relive the past. They visit familiar places, engage in conversations filled with reminiscence, and play the game of 'Do you remember so and so?' However, the protagonist is also acutely aware of the absence of their past love, a void that makes it difficult to fully embrace the nostalgia. The line 'Number three is never say her name' underscores the pain of this loss, suggesting that some memories are too painful to revisit.

Despite the melancholy undertone, the song also captures moments of warmth and camaraderie. The protagonist finds solace in the company of old friends, sharing stories and laughter. The scene of a young couple falling in love near the pianola stands in contrast to the protagonist's own sense of loss, highlighting the cyclical nature of life and love. Ultimately, 'Flame Trees' is a reflection on the enduring impact of the past and the bittersweet nature of returning to a place that holds so many memories.