Lorde Reveals 'Clearblue' is Too Painful to Listen To: A Raw Look at Vulnerability and Early Motherhood
Lorde, the acclaimed New Zealand singer-songwriter, has opened up about a particularly raw and emotionally charged track from her debut album, Pure Heroine. In a recent appearance on Song Stories, a podcast hosted by Apple Music's Zane Lowe, Lorde confessed that she finds it almost unbearable to listen to her deep cut, 'Clearblue.'
The song, a deeply personal reflection on taking a pregnancy test after unprotected sex, was written when Lorde was just 16 years old. She described the experience of writing it as a way to process a moment of intense vulnerability and uncertainty. 'That whole song just destroys me,' she admitted, her voice tinged with a palpable sense of emotion.
Lorde explained that revisiting the song brings back a flood of memories and feelings from that period of her life. While she acknowledges the song's artistic merit and its importance as a piece of her creative journey, the emotional weight is simply too significant for her to comfortably experience it repeatedly. She elaborated, 'It's just… so much. It's a lot of feeling.'
The podcast episode delved deeper into the songwriting process behind Pure Heroine, with Lorde sharing insights into the influences and inspirations that shaped the album's distinctive sound and lyrical themes. 'Clearblue,' in particular, stands out as a testament to her willingness to explore profound and often uncomfortable personal experiences through her music.
A Song of Raw Honesty
What makes 'Clearblue' so striking is its unflinching honesty. Unlike many pop songs that shy away from difficult or taboo topics, Lorde tackles the complexities of early adulthood, sexual exploration, and the potential for unexpected life changes with remarkable candor. The song's lyrics are poetic and evocative, capturing the mix of fear, hope, and confusion that can accompany such a pivotal moment.
This vulnerability resonates with listeners, contributing to the song's enduring appeal despite its relative obscurity compared to Lorde's more mainstream hits. It's a reminder that even artists at the top of their game grapple with personal struggles and that art can be a powerful tool for processing and sharing those experiences.
Beyond 'Clearblue': Lorde's Evolving Artistry
Lorde's openness about her struggles with 'Clearblue' further cements her reputation as an artist who prioritizes authenticity and emotional depth. Her subsequent albums, Melodrama and Solar Power, have continued to explore themes of identity, relationships, and personal growth, showcasing her evolving artistry and willingness to experiment with new sounds and perspectives. While 'Clearblue' may be too painful for her to listen to, it remains a powerful and poignant reminder of the raw talent and emotional honesty that defines Lorde's music.
The Song Stories podcast episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential musicians of our time. It's a must-listen for fans of Lorde and anyone interested in the creative process behind compelling songwriting.