Lipstick On The Glass

Wolf Alice's 'Lipstick On The Glass' delves into the complexities of a tumultuous relationship, marked by cycles of separation and reconciliation. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional conflict, where the protagonist grapples with the decision to return to a lover despite the lingering signs of past mistakes, symbolized by the 'lipstick still on the glass.' This imagery suggests remnants of previous encounters, hinting at unresolved issues and the difficulty of moving on.

The recurring theme of the 'full moon rising' serves as a metaphor for the inevitability of these emotional cycles. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, the protagonist finds themselves repeatedly drawn back into the relationship, despite knowing it may not be the healthiest choice. This celestial imagery underscores the natural, almost uncontrollable pull of their emotions, highlighting the internal struggle between desire and rationality.

The song also touches on themes of self-deception and mutual misunderstanding. Lines like 'my body does deceive me' and 'though we're fighting different wars' suggest that both parties are battling their own internal conflicts, which complicates their relationship further. The admission that 'it's me who makes myself mad' reveals a deep self-awareness, acknowledging that the protagonist's own actions and decisions contribute to their emotional turmoil. Ultimately, 'Lipstick On The Glass' captures the bittersweet essence of love, where the allure of reconciliation often overshadows the pain of past mistakes.