Scarlet Lies

The Rare Occasions' song 'Scarlet Lies' delves into the emotional turmoil of a relationship marred by deception and regret. The narrative begins with a sudden departure, as the protagonist's partner decides to leave. The abruptness of the situation is captured in the line, 'Fine! She said, I'm going away,' highlighting the shock and helplessness felt by the protagonist. The use of 'figment, a dream' suggests that the relationship, once real and tangible, has now become a distant memory, almost surreal in its absence.

The recurring chant of 'Lies! Lies!' serves as a powerful reminder of the deceit that has tainted the relationship. This repetition underscores the pain and betrayal experienced by the protagonist. The lyrics 'For not a willow wept until the night you left' poetically convey the depth of sorrow, indicating that the world itself seemed to mourn the loss. The 'penultimate kiss' not tasting as fervent as before signifies the diminishing passion and the inevitable end of the relationship.

As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on their actions and the slow realization of their mistakes. The imagery of 'waltzing through the night' and 'cobblestones' paints a picture of a romantic yet melancholic journey. The mention of poets with 'scarlet lies' dripping from their eyes adds a layer of artistic melancholy, suggesting that the pain of love and deception is a universal theme, often explored in poetry and art. The closing lines, 'take it from me, how bad could it be, my love?' hint at a resigned acceptance, acknowledging the inevitability of heartache in the pursuit of love.