Meaning of "Fine" by Kacey Musgraves

In the song "Fine," Kacey Musgraves explores the experience of longing for someone who is not currently present. The lyrics illustrate the narrator's attempts to maintain a sense of normalcy and convince herself that everything is okay. The act of picking tomatoes from the vine and looking out the window serve as distractions, momentarily taking her mind off her longing. Putting on makeup and walking through the house in heels signify her desire to maintain a sense of beauty and stability, even in the absence of the person she longs for.

The reference to putting her face in the person's clothes highlights her longing for their presence, seeking comfort in their scent and belongings. The lyrics also reveal the narrator's struggle to sleep, as she lies awake counting the days until the person returns. The repetition of "And if they ask, I'll say I'm fine" suggests that she puts up a brave face for others, pretending that she is not affected by the absence.

The comparison to a circus adds to the theme of longing and missing someone. The narrator expresses the sadness she feels when the person leaves, likening it to the sadness that comes when a circus departs town. However, she chooses to leave the light on, a symbol of hope and anticipation, and believes that when the person returns home, everything will be fine.

The line "They always say you don't get to choose, the same old cliche, love chooses you" reflects the narrator's belief that the experience of love and longing is beyond her control. It suggests that she will continue to wait patiently for the person to come back, accepting the circumstances that love has dealt her.

Overall, "Fine" captures the bittersweet emotions that come with missing someone and the longing for their return. It explores the everyday routines and attempts at emotional preservation while waiting for the person's presence. The song reflects the universal experience of missing someone and the hope that things will be fine when they come back.