The lyrics of "Apple" by Charli XCX explore the complexities of a relationship, using the metaphor of an apple to represent the shared history and inherited traits between two people. The song delves into themes of frustration, misunderstanding, and the desire for escape.

Verse 1

• "I guess the apple don't fall far from the tree": This line establishes the core metaphor. The apple represents the person Charli is singing to, and the tree represents their shared lineage or past. The saying "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree" suggests that they share similar characteristics or tendencies.
• "Now I only see me": This line reveals a sense of disillusionment. Charli feels like she's only seeing her own reflection in her partner, implying a lack of individuality or a sense of being trapped.
• "I wanna throw the apple into the sky": This desire to throw the apple symbolizes a wish to break free from the constraints of their relationship.
• "Feels like you never understand me": This line expresses the frustration of feeling unheard and misunderstood.
• "So I just wanna drive / To the airport": This recurring motif of driving to the airport signifies a longing for escape and a desire to leave the situation behind.

Verse 2

• "I guess the apple could turn yellow or green": This line acknowledges the possibility of change and growth within the relationship, but it also hints at uncertainty.
• "I wanna grow the apple, keep all the seeds": Despite the challenges, Charli wants to nurture the relationship and preserve its potential.
• "But I can't help but get so angry / You don't listen, I leave": This line reveals the emotional toll of feeling ignored and the consequences of that lack of communication.

Verse 3

• "I think the apple's rotten right to the core": This line suggests that the relationship has become deeply corrupted or damaged.
• "From all the things passed down / From all the apples coming before": This implies that the problems in the relationship are rooted in their shared history and familial patterns.
• "I split the apple down symmetrical lines": This action represents an attempt to dissect and understand the issues within the relationship.
• "And what I find is kinda scary": This line indicates that the truth they uncover about themselves and their relationship is unsettling.

Outro

• "I wanna know where you go / When you're feeling alone": The repetition of this question in the outro reveals Charli's longing for deeper connection and understanding. She wants to know her partner's inner world and how they cope with their own struggles.

Overall, "Apple" is a poignant and melancholic reflection on the complexities of relationships, inherited traits, and the challenges of communication and understanding. The apple serves as a powerful symbol that allows Charli to explore the emotional weight of her situation and her yearning for both escape and connection.