When You Were Made

The Growlers' song 'When You Were Made' delves into the complexities and inevitable transformations of love over time. The lyrics paint a poignant picture of a couple who were once deeply in love but have since grown distant and disillusioned. The opening lines, 'No, they're not in love anymore / They are stuck and afraid,' set the tone for a narrative that explores the fading of passion and the onset of fear and stagnation in a long-term relationship. Despite this, the song reassures the listener, 'Don't worry babe / Don't get too down on yourself / They were in love when you were made,' emphasizing that the love that once existed was genuine and meaningful, especially at the time of the listener's conception.

The song uses vivid imagery to illustrate the physical and emotional wear and tear that comes with time. Lines like 'His old boots finally wore out / And the fire in his belly faded' and 'Her supple breast sadly sagged / As her tender heart grew jaded' highlight the inevitable aging process and the emotional toll it takes on individuals. The chorus, 'A life of love is a long time / When you know that it's only one time,' serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of love, even as it changes and evolves. It suggests that while love may not always remain in its initial passionate state, its presence and impact are long-lasting.

The song also addresses the listener directly, offering a form of solace and understanding. 'You were the reason they stuck around / But you're old enough now / Don't worry babe / Not till you've been there too, will your world be less cruel,' acknowledges the listener's role in their parents' relationship and the inevitability of experiencing similar challenges in their own life. The lyrics convey a sense of acceptance and resilience, encouraging the listener to understand that love, despite its hardships, is a significant and worthwhile journey.

In the end, 'When You Were Made' is a reflective and tender exploration of love's endurance and the passage of time. It captures the bittersweet reality that while love may change and face difficulties, its essence remains a powerful and defining force in our lives.