Meaning and Lyrics of Ruined by Adrianne Lenker

Adrianne Lenker’s song “Ruined” is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of the vulnerability and intensity that comes with deep, unrequited or complicated love. The lyrics capture the emotional turmoil and the inescapable impact of another person on one’s life. Let’s delve into each part of the song for a more detailed interpretation.

Verse 1 sets the stage with a sense of anticipation and regret. The narrator describes being unable to muster the courage to contact the person they are so affected by. The recurring act of “falling through” suggests repeated failure or missed opportunities. The wishful sentiment of having acknowledged the person when they passed by underscores a poignant mixture of regret and introspection. The scene painted is one of emotional paralysis—being close yet unable to act.

In the Chorus, the intensity of emotions intensifies. The phrase “So much coming through, every hour too” suggests an overwhelming flood of feelings and thoughts about the person. The repetition of “Can’t get enough of you” signifies an almost obsessive craving for the person’s presence. The verses “You come around, I’m ruined” encapsulate the destructive yet irresistible nature of their effect on the narrator. The word “ruined” here is rich in meaning; it conveys both the ecstasy and the agony brought by the beloved’s presence.

Verse 2 introduces a scene with more detail and an actionable moment. The lack of answers or lies from the other person may indicate an honest, albeit distant, form of communication. The gift of an amethyst stands as a powerful symbol. Amethyst, a gemstone often associated with spirituality and calm, contrasts with the turmoil described in the chorus, indicating perhaps an attempt at giving peace or clarity. Yet, the act of crying suggests underlying sadness or emotional complexity, making the gesture bittersweet.

The repetition of the Chorus after the second verse reinforces the cyclical nature of the narrator’s emotional state. The overwhelming feeling described earlier persists, illustrating how the presence of the beloved continuously disrupts and consumes the narrator.

Verse 3 portrays a more intimate and shared experience. The basement setting could imply a hidden, private space, while the bending fern reaching towards the window might symbolize a yearning for light or understanding. The alignment they “drew” as the water soaked the pillow suggests a moment of emotional synchronization or understanding, soaked with tears or deep emotion. This verse emphasizes a fleeting but profound connection, surrounded by elements of growth (the fern) and cleansing (the water).

Returning to the Chorus, the sense of being “ruined” by the person’s presence is reiterated, underlining the chorus’s central theme. The instrumental break that follows can be seen as a moment for the listener to absorb and internalize the weight of the emotions conveyed.

The final Chorus and Outro continue to hammer home the unyielding impact of the beloved’s presence. This repetition not only highlights the addictive nature of such a strong emotional bond but also the torment that comes with it.

In conclusion, “Ruined” by Adrianne Lenker is a deeply evocative song, rich with themes of longing, regret, and the overpowering influence of love. The blend of poetic imagery and heartfelt repetition creates a moving tapestry of emotion, leaving the listener with a profound understanding of the narrator’s tumultuous inner world. The song captures the essence of how love can be both a beautiful gift and a destructive force, leaving one “ruined” yet unable to let go.