"The Most Unoriginal Sin" by John Hiatt is a song that delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the cyclical patterns of human behavior. In the lyrics, Hiatt describes the remnants of a past relationship that have been reduced to dust and thick skin, symbolizing the decay and disregard that has taken place. The reference to a half-eaten apple and the Sistine Chapel painted on the head of a pin alludes to the contrast between something significant and grand (the chapel) and something wasted and insignificant (the apple), perhaps representing the loss of a love that once held great value. The song continues to explore the protagonist's experience at a wedding, where they put on a smiling facade despite the presence of temptation and deceit. The temptation is symbolized by the offer of an apple, recalling the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, where they succumbed to temptation and were banished from paradise. The protagonist recognizes that their partner's betrayal goes unnoticed, as they didn't even see the other person enter the relationship ("she waltz in"). This realization leads to a sense of despair and the perception of their love as a ghost, haunted by the sins committed. Hiatt uses the imagery of a wild violin playing while the chapel is in view, emphasizing the destructive allure of temptation. The consequences of surrendering to this temptation are compared to being "gone with the wind," implying a loss of control and stability. The song suggests that the protagonist's partner didn't need any proof of their betrayal because the truth was naked and apparent, evident in the infidel's grin. However, the protagonist also acknowledges their own faults by referring to themselves as an infidel, highlighting their own role in perpetuating the cycle of unfaithfulness. The jukebox symbolizes the human tendency to indulge in vices and shortfalls, and the protagonist finds solace in a drink that helps them temporarily escape their feelings of guilt and remorse. In the final chorus, Hiatt reflects on the repetitive nature of human behavior and the allure of forbidden love. The protagonist toasts to whoever comes close, acknowledging their participation in the unoriginal sin of succumbing to temptation time and again. Overall, "The Most Unoriginal Sin" is a reflection on the complexities of human relationships, the recurring patterns of betrayal, and the consequences of giving in to temptation. It explores themes of lost love, self-awareness, and the cyclical nature of sin.
