Meaning of "Where It Stays" by Charlotte OC

In "Where It Stays," Charlotte OC conveys the profound grief and loss experienced after a romantic relationship comes to an end. The mention of crying upon hearing the ex-lover's name suggests that the pain is still fresh and deeply affecting. The protagonist wonders why she still feels their presence everywhere she goes, implying a lingering sense of emotional attachment. This attachment is further emphasized by the repeated refrain of "Tell me where your heart is, tell me where you keep it, tell me where it stays."

The concept of where the heart resides becomes a metaphor for the emotional bond and vulnerability that was shared between the two individuals. By asking where the heart is kept, the protagonist seeks to understand where their love or feelings for each other remain. The pain of longing is depicted through the imagery of a ghost walking on her gray, suggesting a haunting emptiness in her life without the presence of her former lover.

The repetition of the phrase "When we are not together, I'm so afraid" serves to highlight the fear and anxiety the protagonist experiences when separated from her ex-lover. This fear could stem from the uncertainty of their future together or the overwhelming emptiness she feels without their presence.

Overall, "Where It Stays" delves into the emotions that come with a breakup and the search for closure, understanding, and healing. It explores the lingering attachment that keeps the protagonist connected to her former lover, even in their absence. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing, pain, and fear, capturing the raw emotions experienced when someone we love becomes a mere memory.