Omar Apollo – “Evergreen” Lyrics Meaning

“Evergreen” is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and self-reflection. The song delves into the emotional turmoil of loving someone who doesn’t reciprocate those feelings. Apollo questions his own worth and identity in light of this unfulfilled love, asking if there’s something wrong with him. The lyrics are a heartfelt confession of the pain and self-doubt that come with unreciprocated affection. Apollo wrote this song from a deeply personal place, reflecting on his own experiences with love and heartbreak. The song is not just about the pain of unrequited love, but also about the journey of self-acceptance and moving forward.

“Evergreen” is a journey through the highs and lows of unrequited love, laden with raw emotion and introspection. Let’s unpack it, verse by verse.


“Evergreen” Lyrics Meaning

The opening lines, “Evergreen, he controls me / Was there something wrong with my body?” immediately set the tone of vulnerability and self-doubt. Here, Apollo is not just singing about the pain of unrequited love, but also questioning his self-worth. The metaphor of ‘Evergreen’ suggests something constant and unchanging, much like his unrequited feelings.

“Am I not what you wanted, babe? / If I ever tried, if I ever tried, I would” echoes a deep longing to be enough for the person he loves. These lines speak to the universal experience of yearning to be desired and the painful realization that sometimes, no matter how much we try, we can’t change how someone feels about us.

The chorus, “Evergreen, he tears me to pieces / Doesn’t even have to try”, is particularly striking. It’s a raw depiction of how effortlessly someone can break your heart, especially when they hold a significant place in your life. The repetition of ‘Evergreen’ throughout the song serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of these feelings.

Then, there’s a shift in perspective with “She don’t know you like me / She could never love you more, more than me.” This introduces a sense of rivalry and comparison, common in situations where love is not reciprocated. It’s a moment of Apollo grappling with the reality that his love interest is with someone else, yet still holding onto the belief that his love is unmatched.

The lines “You know you really made me hate myself / Had to stop before I break myself” signal a turning point. Here, Apollo recognizes the toxic impact of this unrequited love on his self-esteem and mental health. The song then becomes not just about unrequited love, but also about self-preservation and the difficult decision to let go for the sake of one’s own wellbeing.

Finally, “One last time / I see / Ever, evergreen / Please don’t come home to me, oh / Oh, sweet evergreen / He don’t love me no more” brings a sense of closure. It’s a painful acceptance of the reality that the love he yearns for will never be reciprocated. These lines encapsulate the heart of the song – the struggle to let go of someone who has such a profound emotional hold over you.

The Story Behind “Evergreen”

The creation of “Evergreen” came during a period in Apollo’s life marked by complexities of his identity and emotions, a journey that profoundly influenced his songwriting. This song, in particular, seems to be a cathartic release for Apollo, a way to process and articulate feelings that were deeply personal and possibly painful. The rawness in the lyrics suggests that he was in a vulnerable state, using music as a medium to confront and articulate his emotions.

It’s this authenticity that resonates with listeners, as many can relate to the themes of love, rejection, and self-discovery. Apollo’s ability to channel his experiences into his music serves as a therapeutic outlet for him and creates a powerful connection with his audience.