The Weight of Unrequited Longing | Apples And Oranges | Jenny Lewis

Jenny Lewis's song "Apples and Oranges" is a poignant reflection on the complexities of relationships and the fragility of human connection. The lyrics explore the theme of unrequited love, with the protagonist struggling to come to terms with the fact that her feelings are not reciprocated.

The song's title itself is a metaphor for the contrast between the idealized, romantic notion of love (apples) and the harsh reality of disappointment and heartache (oranges). Throughout the song, Lewis's lyrics masterfully convey the emotional turmoil that arises when one person's passion is met with another's indifference. Her voice is tinged with a sense of longing, as she sings about the desire to connect with someone who remains just out of reach.

One of the most striking aspects of "Apples and Oranges" is its ability to capture the quiet desperation that can accompany unrequited love. Lewis's songwriting is characterized by a wry humor and a deep emotional intelligence, which allows her to tap into the universal human experience of loving someone who doesn't love us back.

The lyrics are infused with a sense of resignation, as the protagonist comes to accept that her feelings will never be requited. This acceptance is tempered, however, by a lingering hope that things might yet change. It's this ambiguity that gives "Apples and Oranges" its emotional resonance, making it a powerful exploration of the complexities of human relationships.

Ultimately, "Apples and Oranges" is a song about the fragility of the human heart, and the ways in which we can be hurt by others without even realizing it. It's a poignant reminder that love is never easy, and that sometimes the hardest thing to do is to accept that our feelings will never be returned.