Song meaning of All Apologies by Lorde (Ft. Dave Grohl, Kim Gordon, Krist Novoselic, Pat Smear & St. Vincent)

"All Apologies" by Lorde is a haunting and introspective cover of the iconic Nirvana song, featuring a star-studded lineup of musicians including Dave Grohl, Kim Gordon, Krist Novoselic, Pat Smear, and St. Vincent. The song delves into themes of self-doubt, guilt, and a sense of alienation, as Lorde grapples with her own identity and place in the world.

In the opening verse, Lorde questions her own authenticity and struggles with the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The lines "What else should I be? All apologies / What else could I say? Everyone is gay" suggest a sense of resignation and a desire to seek forgiveness for not fitting in or living up to certain standards. This sentiment is further emphasized in the repetition of "All apologies," highlighting a sense of remorse and self-criticism.

The chorus, with its repeated refrain of "In the sun, in the sun, I feel as one," conveys a yearning for connection and unity, perhaps with others who share similar feelings of isolation and disillusionment. The imagery of being "married, buried" evokes a sense of finality and acceptance of one's fate, whether it be in relationships or in life in general.

In the second verse, Lorde expresses a longing to be carefree and untroubled like those around her, lamenting her own perceived shortcomings and mistakes. The lines "Find my nest of salt / Everything is my fault" reveal a deep sense of guilt and self-blame, while the references to "Aqua seafoam shame" and "Choking on the ashes of her enemy" evoke a sense of suffocation and inner turmoil.

The outro, with its repeated mantra of "All in all is all we are," suggests a sense of resignation and acceptance of the complexities and imperfections of human existence. The repetition of this phrase underscores the idea that despite our flaws and struggles, we are all interconnected and ultimately part of a larger whole.

Overall, "All Apologies" by Lorde is a poignant and introspective reimagining of a classic song, exploring themes of self-doubt, guilt, and the search for connection and understanding in a world that often feels confusing and isolating.