Apple Lyrics

Charli XCX's Apple: Exploring the Depths of BRAT's Eleventh Track

Producers: Charli XCX, A. G. Cook, George Daniel & Lotus IV
Release Date: June 7, 2024
Featured: None

Annotations and Meaning

Apple is the eleventh track on Charli XCX's sixth studio album, BRAT. The song delves into themes of familial inheritance and self-realization. The apple metaphor is used to explore the similarities and differences between oneself and one's predecessors. The track also touches on feelings of frustration and the desire to escape, symbolized by the repeated mention of driving to the airport.

Analysis

The opening verse sets the stage for the central metaphor of the song: "I guess the apple don't fall far from the tree." Charli reflects on how long-term exposure to someone can lead to seeing oneself in them, suggesting a blend of admiration and self-discovery. The desire to "throw the apple into the sky" signifies a wish to break free from these inherited traits and misunderstandings. In the second verse, Charli acknowledges the complexity of individual differences with, "I guess the apple could turn yellow or green," illustrating the nuances between people. Despite wanting to nurture these differences ("grow the apple, keep all the seeds"), she is met with frustration and the urge to leave for the airport. The third verse introduces a darker tone with the apple being "rotten right to the core," a symbol of the negative aspects passed down through generations. This realization drives Charli to escape, as expressed through the repeated motif of driving all night. The interlude and outro emphasize a sense of relentless movement and a quest for understanding, as Charli questions, "I wanna know where you go when you're feeling alone."

Thematic Elements

The song Apple is rich in themes of inheritance, self-identity, and escape. The apple serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing both the traits passed down from previous generations and the personal journey of differentiating oneself. Charli XCX uses this metaphor to explore the struggles of understanding and dealing with these inherited traits. The repeated references to the airport signify a longing for escape and a search for freedom. This imagery captures the tension between the desire to break away from inherited flaws and the frustration of not being understood. Charli's acknowledgment of influences like Caroline Polachek in the creation of this track highlights the song's roots in introspective and experimental songwriting. This track stands out on the album for its unique sound and deep, reflective lyrics. In summary, Charli XCX's Apple is a thought-provoking exploration of inheritance and self-identity. Through vivid metaphors and emotive imagery, the song captures the artist's journey of self-discovery and the complexities of familial influence. The track's blend of introspective lyrics and dynamic production makes it a distinctive and compelling piece on the BRAT album.