“Glycerine” Lyrics Meaning (Bush)


Glycerine Lyrics Meaning (Bush Song Explained)

Released in November 1995 as part of Bush’s debut album, Sixteen Stone, “Glycerine” became one of the band’s most iconic tracks. Written by lead singer Gavin Rossdale, the song is a heartfelt and raw exploration of love, pain, and regret, with layers of meaning. Its haunting melody and deeply emotional lyrics have resonated with listeners for decades, cementing its place as a classic 90s rock song.

This article covers the meaning of the lyrics to “Glycerine,” offering an interpretation of its emotional layers.

“Glycerine” Lyrics Meaning: Line by Line

Verse 1: The Weight of Love and Presence

It must be your skin I’m sinking in
It must be for real, ’cause now I can feel

The opening lines describe an intense connection, where love feels tangible and real.

Rossdale captures the overwhelming sensation of being consumed by emotions and physical closeness.

I didn’t mind, it’s not my kind
It’s not my time to wonder why

These lines suggest a reluctance to overthink the relationship or its complications. Instead, there’s an acceptance of the love, even if it doesn’t entirely align with the singer’s usual experiences.

Everything gone white, everything’s grey
Now you’re here, now you’re away

This juxtaposition of presence and absence reflects the instability of the relationship.

The imagery of white and grey could symbolize emotional numbness or uncertainty.

I don’t want this, remember that
I’ll never forget where you’re at

Here, we see a mix of resistance and longing. While the relationship may bring pain, the singer cannot let go of the memories tied to their partner.


Chorus: Plea for Connection

Don’t let the days go by
Glycerine, glycerine

The repeated plea emphasizes a fear of time slipping away and the regret that follows.

“Glycerine,” a substance used to preserve, could symbolize the desire to hold onto moments before they fade.


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Verse 2: Loneliness and Reconciliation

I’m never alone, I’m alone all the time
Are you at one? Do you lie?

These lines capture the paradox of feeling lonely even in a relationship.

The singer questions his partner’s authenticity, hinting at underlying distrust.

We live in a wheel where everyone steals
But when we rise, it’s like strawberry fields

This metaphor describes the cycle of hurt and healing within the relationship.

Despite the struggles, there are fleeting moments of bliss, likened to the idyllic imagery of “Strawberry Fields Forever.”

Treated you bad, you bruise my face
Couldn’t love you more, you’ve got a beautiful taste

The lyrics admit fault and acknowledge the pain caused to the partner. However, there’s also a deep admiration, suggesting love persists despite the damage.


Chorus Extended: A sense of regret and emotional conflict

I couldn’t change though I wanted to
It should have been easier by three

These lines express his frustration and regret. He wishes he could have changed things, but feels powerless to do so.

“It should have been easier by three” could reflect how time or distance should have healed things by now, but it hasn’t. It could also mean that his actions—whether intentional or not—made the relationship more difficult.

Our old friend fear and you and me

The line “Our old friend fear” suggests that fear has always been an issue in the relationship, acting as a barrier to progress.


Bridge: A Moment of Reflection

Bad moon white again
Bad moon white again
As she falls around me

The “bad moon” imagery evokes a sense of foreboding or emotional turbulence. It could represent the cyclical nature of conflict and the inevitable fallout that surrounds the singer.


Verse 3: Acceptance of Loss

I needed you more, you wanted us less
I could not kiss, just regress

These lines reveal the imbalance in the relationship. His emotional needs are unmet, leading to regression and withdrawal.

It might just be clear, simple and plain
Well, that’s just fine, that’s just one of my names

This resignation suggests his acceptance of his partner’s perception, no matter how simplified or distorted it may be.


The Meaning Behind “Glycerine”

At its core, “Glycerine” captures the vulnerability and complexity of a troubled relationship. It delves into themes of love, regret, and emotional struggle, showcasing the intensity of trying to hold onto something that’s slipping away.

Rossdale’s raw lyrics highlight the beauty and pain of connection, underscoring the delicate balance between closeness and distance. “Glycerine” remains a timeless anthem for anyone navigating the fragility of love.


Songs Like “Glycerine”

If you enjoy the raw emotion of “Glycerine,” you might also like:

1. “Lightning Crashes” by Live

Lightning Crashes” reflects on life, loss, and connection, blending emotive lyrics with a powerful melody. Its heartfelt themes and haunting sound make it a perfect companion to “Glycerine.”

Check out our full “Lightning Crashes” Lyrics Meaning article.


2. “Disarm” by The Smashing Pumpkins

With its poignant lyrics and soft acoustic tones, “Disarm” captures the pain of conflict and the longing for reconciliation. Its reflective mood complements the themes of “Glycerine” beautifully.


3. “Creep” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s hit “Creep” explores feelings of inadequacy and longing, mirroring the vulnerability found in “Glycerine.” The introspective lyrics and haunting vocals create a similarly emotional atmosphere.

Check out our full “Creep” Lyrics Meaning article.


Conclusion: A Haunting Reminder of Love and Regret

“Glycerine” explores the ups and downs of love, from the good moments to the painful ones. With its emotional lyrics and haunting melody, Bush created a song that still speaks to listeners today.

The song captures raw feelings of regret, longing, and realizing mistakes in relationships. Its themes are easy to understand, and anyone who’s ever experienced love’s tough moments can relate to it.

You can listen to “Glycerine” on Spotify and Amazon.

Be sure to check out more of our Song Meanings articles!


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