The meaning of Ribs by Lorde

Lorde's song "Ribs" is a poignant reflection on the fragility of human connection and the pain that can result from disconnection. The lyrics, delivered in Lorde's signature whispery vocals, paint a picture of two people struggling to hold onto each other despite the distance growing between them.

The song's opening lines, "I've been thinking 'bout all the things I'll never get to say / And I've been thinking about how you'd always slip away," set the tone for a song that explores the ache of lost opportunity and the longing for human connection. Lorde's lyrics are characteristically introspective, plumbing the depths of her own emotions to craft a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

One of the most striking aspects of "Ribs" is its use of imagery to convey the sense of disconnection and longing. The song's title, "Ribs," refers not just to the skeletal remains of a relationship but also to the fragile, exposed nature of human connection itself. Lorde's lyrics are full of vivid, tactile descriptions that evoke the sensation of skin and bone: "You're on my mind / Like a wound that won't close" is a particularly evocative line that speaks to the lingering pain of past heartache.

Despite its focus on themes of disconnection and longing, "Ribs" is ultimately a hopeful song – or at least, it suggests that hope can be found in the darkness. The lyrics are full of yearning and desire, as Lorde's protagonist reaches out for connection despite the risks: "I'll take my chances with the unknown / I'll take my chances with your love." It's this sense of resilience in the face of adversity that makes "Ribs" such a compelling listen – and ultimately, a testament to the human capacity for hope and connection.