Turpentine

Brandi Carlile's 'Turpentine' is a poignant exploration of the passage of time and the inevitable changes it brings to relationships. The song opens with a nostalgic reflection on the past, where the narrator observes the growing distance between herself and a loved one through photographs and memories. The imagery of 'salt betraying my eyes' suggests tears and the emotional pain of watching someone drift away. This sense of loss is compounded by the physical manifestations of stress, such as losing sleep and gaining weight, and a longing to return to a simpler time when the relationship was more innocent and carefree.

The chorus introduces a powerful metaphor: 'These days we go to waste like wine that's turned to turpentine.' Wine, a symbol of something cherished and valuable, turning into turpentine, a harsh and unusable substance, represents the deterioration of the relationship. The early morning hour of six A.M. signifies a time of reflection and regret, where the narrator acknowledges the wasted time and expresses a desire to 'fall back in line,' indicating a willingness to make amends but also a recognition of the inevitability of growing up and changing.

In the second verse, the narrator addresses the other person's newfound independence and the barriers they've erected. The 'pretty words' and 'little game' symbolize the ways people cope with change and protect themselves from vulnerability. The harsh reality that 'permeates and conquers from within' underscores the internal struggles that accompany personal growth and the challenges of maintaining connections as life evolves. Despite the melancholy tone, the repeated reassurance that 'we're OK' suggests a glimmer of hope and acceptance of the natural progression of life and relationships.