Bitter Water

The Oh Hellos' song 'Bitter Water' delves into the complex and often painful emotions associated with unrequited love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both cherished and regretted, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of holding onto feelings that are not reciprocated. The repeated imagery of 'bitter water' serves as a powerful metaphor for the lingering taste of a love that is both intoxicating and toxic. This duality is further emphasized by the juxtaposition of 'honey on my tongue' and 'the terrible fire of old regret,' illustrating the conflicting emotions that come with loving someone who cannot or will not love you back.

The song's protagonist is acutely aware of the futility of their love, yet they are unable to let go. This is evident in lines like 'I know I shouldn't love you, but I do,' which are repeated throughout the song, underscoring the internal struggle between reason and emotion. The references to celestial bodies like the Sun and Moon, as well as natural elements like fire and flood, add a timeless and universal quality to the song, suggesting that these feelings are as old as time itself. The 'empty hole' and 'cup that can't be filled' symbolize the void left by unfulfilled love, a void that seems impossible to fill.

The song also touches on themes of nostalgia and the passage of time. The line 'You'll bury me beneath the tree I climbed when I was a child' evokes a sense of inevitability and the cyclical nature of life and love. Despite the pain and regret, there is a sense of acceptance and resignation in the protagonist's voice, as if they have come to terms with the fact that some loves are meant to be felt deeply but never fully realized. 'Bitter Water' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, capturing the essence of love's ability to both uplift and devastate.