The song "The Apple & The Tree" by Graveyard explores the themes of nostalgia, personal growth, and the struggles of life. The lyrics depict a nostalgic reflection on the past when life was innocent and carefree. However, the song also highlights the conflicts, fun, and ignorance of that time. The phrase "Now you're always under influence" suggests that the protagonist has changed and is constantly affected by outside influences, possibly referring to substance abuse or negative influences that have altered their life. The line "A long hard fall from oblivion" indicates a descent from innocence into a more challenging and difficult life. It further emphasizes the idea that life is not always what it seems. "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree" is a metaphor that suggests that the protagonist's actions or choices are similar to those of their family or upbringing. This line implies that they may be repeating patterns established by their parents or ancestors. The following lines express the idea that the protagonist and their partner were too young and unaware to truly understand the consequences of their actions, resulting in the challenges they face now. The phrase "Too full of ourselves to see how it was gonna be" suggests their lack of foresight and immaturity, leading to their current predicament. The chorus indicates that the protagonist has never had an easy life, but it's the only life they have ever known. They have made good and bad decisions, but that's how life is for people like them. The song also touches upon the unfairness of life, represented by the line "Ain't it strange how the cards are dealt?" It conveys a sense of resignation towards a future that may seem doomed from past experiences. The lyrics continue to express the idea that life is a struggle, mentioning that some people live because they have to, not because they want to. Others may even die trying to escape their circumstances. The protagonist feels frustrated by others' attempts to define who they are. They reject labels and see themselves as a complex mix of identities, neither all nor nothing. They feel that life is a repetitive cycle with little room for change. Overall, "The Apple & The Tree" paints a picture of a life marked by both good and bad choices, a lack of control over circumstances, and a longing for something better. It captures the essence of the human struggle to define oneself and break free from societal expectations.
