In Lisa Hannigan's song "Pistachio," the lyrics speak to the struggles and emotions of feeling low or weighed down. The song starts with the imagery of a pre-shelled pistachio, perhaps symbolizing a loss of its original flavor or essence. This could represent a person who feels that their own unique qualities or identity have faded away. The lyrics also convey a sense of weariness and being fed up, as the heavy boots metaphorically represent the burden of sadness or melancholy that one carries. The word choice of "notion's all you own" suggests that sometimes negativity is the only thing one feels in control of or owns. The song takes a turn to the artist's perspective, where Lisa Hannigan describes herself likening to sugar that tends to become brittle and sticky when spun. This could imply that she becomes fragile and emotional when faced with difficult situations. The mention of a photo left out in the sun further emphasizes the potential fading of one's vibrant qualities or experiences. Lisa Hannigan also mentions trying to keep herself in "lilies and flax seeds," which could be interpreted as a metaphor for seeking peace and balance. However, she admits that fooling oneself into thinking everything is fine can be a folly. The lyrics then shift to the suggestion of using smoking as a way to cope with difficulties, although the singer acknowledges that it's important not to judge or dismiss it until one has walked in those shoes. The reference to subtlety blowing away and a blush giving way to a bruise implies that when emotions or struggles become more evident, they can lead to pain or harm. Finally, the lyrics end with a plea for a trade-off, suggesting that the singer would willingly exchange the heavy boots and the burden they bring for red shoes. This could be symbolizing a desire for a more joyful and carefree existence, a release from the weight of negative emotions. Overall, the song "Pistachio" explores themes of feeling weighed down, seeking balance, and the complexity of human emotions. It captures the struggle to maintain a sense of self, while also acknowledging the challenges and contradictions that come with navigating difficult times.
