“Maple Syrup” by The Backseat Lovers is a deep reflection on past relationships, memories, and regrets. The song touches on the lingering emotions and reminders of a past love, from pictures on the wall to clothing that retains their scent. It paints the story of a love once cherished but inevitably ended, with the songwriter expressing remorse for specific actions and decisions. The lyrics hint at a promise broken, possibly involving another person. The track is a candid confession of how hard it is to move on and the difficulty of letting go.
Stick around and let’s unpack the lyrics. You won’t be disappointed.
“Maple Syrup” Lyrics Meaning
Starting with the lines, “I still have your picture on the wall” the singer reveals the lasting impact of the relationship. Even though they’ve parted ways, traces of that love linger, like photographs still occupying a spot on the wall.
“I still have the nightmares where I would have to call you to calm down”. This emphasizes the depth of their bond. The singer was the go-to person during tough times, showcasing how intertwined their lives had been.
“When I step out of the shower I’m reminded of the night/When we slept in the back of your car”. Here, ordinary actions like taking a shower bring back vivid memories. Their relationship was marked by intimate, memorable moments, such as spending a night in the back of a car.
“Did it hurt when I kicked you to the curb?/Now I’m all alone/I guess I’ll never learn”. The singer acknowledges the pain caused by ending the relationship and shows a sense of regret. There’s a realization that certain actions have left them alone and longing.
“Your purple sweater’s sitting in my room/I tried to wear it, but I knew that it would smell like you”. Objects, like the purple sweater, serve as tangible reminders of the person and their presence. Trying to wear it only intensifies the feelings of longing and nostalgia.
“I saw you dancing at the show tonight/I stood in the back/And I think that we both know why”. There’s still a connection, and the two keep tabs on each other, albeit from a distance. These lines suggest that while they might be moving on, neither has fully let go.
The confession, “And I lied/When I took you on a drive/And I said I’d never speak to her/I wish I would have kept my word” reveals a breach of trust. The broken promise involving another person could be a catalyst for their breakup. The song concludes with an admission of guilt and a wishful longing for what might have been.
The Story Behind “Maple Syrup”
The Backseat Lovers have always been known for their heart-wrenching and intimate storytelling. “Maple Syrup” feels like it sprouted from a place of genuine reflection. It’s speculated that the writer, during the song’s conception, was at a crossroads in their life. Perhaps coming to terms with past actions and understanding the weight of decisions made impulsively. Regret can be a powerful muse, leading to lyrics that resonate deeply with those in similar situations.
Interestingly, relationships often leave imprints on our lives, be it good or bad. Songs like these become an outlet for artists to process and find closure. The visceral nature of “Maple Syrup” suggests that the writer grappled with feelings of loss, guilt, and longing. There’s an overwhelming sense of wishing to turn back time and amend the wrongs – a sentiment most of us can relate to.
Furthermore, the allusion to the broken promise hints at a pivotal moment in the writer’s life, a moment they perhaps wish they could take back. When musicians pen such candid lyrics, they often attempt to find healing, hoping that by sharing their truth, others might find solace in knowing they’re not alone in their feelings.
“Maple Syrup” is an exploration of human emotions, imperfections, and the universal need for redemption. Knowing the songwriter’s background and emotional state at that time adds a profound layer to our understanding and appreciation of the track.