What's Faded

Sticky Fingers' song "What's Faded" delves into the emotional turmoil and nostalgia that follows the end of a significant relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the remnants of a past love, symbolized by looking through a glass, which suggests a sense of separation and reflection. The protagonist is haunted by memories of a time when love was vibrant and alive, now feeling like a ghost of his former self. This imagery of being a 'chip upon your shoulder' and 'haunted by the ghost of the man I used to be' underscores the weight of past emotions and the struggle to move forward.

The chorus highlights the contrast between the two individuals involved. While the woman is ready to move on, the protagonist clings to the past, yearning to 'stay young' and hold onto the powerful emotions that once defined their relationship. This juxtaposition emphasizes the difficulty of letting go and the pain of seeing someone you once loved change and move on. The repeated question, 'Where is the girl that I used to know gone?' reflects a deep sense of loss and confusion, as the protagonist grapples with the reality that the person he once knew has changed.

The final verse captures the protagonist's internal conflict and sense of disorientation. The imagery of feeling vacant in a hotel room and the metaphor of giving a smoke but the fire being gone illustrate the emptiness and finality of the relationship's end. The lines 'Trying to keep my heart out of my head' and 'Trying to hold on to our love what's faded' convey the struggle to reconcile emotions with reality. The song poignantly captures the essence of lost love and the lingering ghosts that remain, making it a relatable and emotionally charged piece.