The Lingering Ghosts of Past Relationships in 'Trojans' by Atlas Genius

Atlas Genius's song 'Trojans' delves into the emotional aftermath of a past relationship that continues to haunt the narrator. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, painting a vivid picture of the struggle to move on from a significant connection. The repeated phrase 'Your trojan's in my head' suggests a lingering presence, much like a Trojan horse, that has infiltrated the narrator's mind and refuses to leave. This metaphor highlights the invasive and persistent nature of these memories, which continue to affect the narrator despite efforts to change and move forward.

The song's verses describe various attempts to cope with these lingering feelings. Lines like 'Take it off, take it in / Take off all the thoughts of what we've been' and 'Change the locks, change the scene / Change it all but can't change what we've been' illustrate the narrator's efforts to erase the past and start anew. However, these attempts are ultimately futile, as the memories and emotions tied to the past relationship remain deeply embedded. The act of writing a song or taking a picture that 'you could never recreate' signifies the unique and irreplaceable nature of the past, further emphasizing the difficulty of moving on.

'Trojans' also touches on the theme of acceptance. The line 'It's ok if it's gone / The thoughts that you had that it was the one' suggests a coming to terms with the end of the relationship and the realization that it may not have been as perfect as once believed. Despite this acceptance, the emotional residue remains, as indicated by the recurring 'lump that sits inside your throat.' This imagery conveys the physical manifestation of unresolved emotions, underscoring the song's exploration of the enduring impact of past relationships on one's psyche.

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