Meaning of "Apples" by Lily Allen

The lyrics of "Apples" delve into the narrator's contemplation of a past relationship and the choices they made. It begins with a reminiscence of happier times, when they would spend lazy days together in their old apartment. However, the narrative quickly shifts to a sense of regret and longing for the simplicity of the past. The narrator admits that they veered off the right path and made mistakes, leading to the dissolution of their relationship.

The song hints at a feeling of guilt, as the narrator acknowledges their role in causing their partner pain. They mention being cliché for staying in the relationship despite not being fully invested, alluding to their own inability to commit and fulfill their partner's needs. The line "I felt like I was only good for writing the cheques" suggests a sense of emptiness and insignificance within the relationship. This could be interpreted as the narrator feeling marginalized, as though their contributions were reduced to simply fulfilling financial responsibilities.

As the song progresses, the lyrics take a more introspective turn. The narrator reflects on the milestones they reached together, from being given a set of keys to the proposal and starting a family. However, despite these apparent markers of success, the narrator admits that it became too overwhelming and they ended up in a place they never intended to be. The line "I'm just like my mummy and my daddy" reveals a moment of realization for the narrator, recognizing that they have replicated their parents' mistakes in their own life.

Overall, "Apples" examines the complexities of relationships, the impact of personal struggles on partnerships, and the cyclical nature of behavior passed down through generations. The lyrics capture a sense of longing for simpler times, regret for past actions, and the self-awareness that comes with recognizing one's own flaws.