Meaning of "Smile" by Olive

The lyrics of "Smile" delve into the complex emotions of putting on a brave face despite inner turmoil. The repetition of the word "smile" throughout the song reflects the pressure to hide true feelings and maintain a facade for others. The lines "There's nothing left, handed down your legacy, but more regret, painted on with empathy" suggest a sense of inheriting burdens and regrets from the past. This could be interpreted as societal expectations, family traditions, or personal history weighing heavily on the singer. Despite the attempt to keep up appearances and hold onto pride, the singer acknowledges the difficulty in finding true contentment. The mention of leaving things behind and the yearning for trying harder allude to a desire to break free from the constraints of the past and seek genuine happiness. The juxtaposition of smiling while feeling soul-destroying pain creates a poignant contrast, highlighting the struggles of concealing one's true emotions. Overall, "Smile" captures the inner conflict between presenting a confident front and grappling with unresolved feelings and the weight of the past.