Meaning of "Roses" by ABRA

The lyrics of "Roses" delve into the complex emotions that arise in relationships, using the metaphor of roses to explore themes of love, longing, and change. The song captures a sense of yearning and vulnerability, as well as the pain that can come with love.

The mention of petals falling from pink roses suggests a fading or decaying love. This could symbolize the end of a relationship or the realization that the speaker's perception of love was based on illusions. The line "Everything dies and everything changes" reflects the transient nature of love and life itself. It portrays a sense of resignation as the speaker comes to terms with the impermanence of relationships.

The mention of having a green thumb and being green with envy further reinforces the theme of longing. The speaker expresses envy for their younger, more naïve self, highlighting the loss of innocence and wisdom that comes with age. This longing for the past and the feeling of being unwise and unknowing encapsulates a sense of regret and nostalgia.

The repetition of "the thorns are showing" emphasizes the pain and vulnerability that can accompany love. Thorns often symbolize the defense mechanisms or the emotional barriers that people build to protect themselves from getting hurt. The repetition suggests that the speaker is becoming more aware of the pain and pitfalls of love.

The chorus, "But you taste best when you're in full bloom / Lay in my teeth, my sweet love trophy / You can't be killed if I rip from the roots / Take it with grace" evokes conflicting emotions. On one hand, the speaker desires the full expression of love and cherishes the moments when love is strong and vibrant. However, there is also a hint of possession and control in the lines, suggesting a fear of losing the loved one.

The line "If you leave me I'll flood out your fire" brings a sense of desperation and the fear of rejection. The speaker's plea for love and reassurance highlights their longing and dependence on the other person. The mention of "thorns are showing" in relation to the other person suggests that they too have their own vulnerabilities and insecurities.

Overall, the song "Roses" explores the complexities and nuances of love, depicting a mixture of vulnerability, longing, and the inevitable changes and pains that come with relationships.