Released: 2019
Lana Del Rey’s “Cinnamon Girl” is a haunting ballad that explores themes of longing, vulnerability, and the desire for a love that doesn’t hurt. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a complex relationship where the protagonist is caught between wanting to be close to someone and the fear of being hurt again.
The opening lines, “Cinnamon in my teeth from your kiss, you’re touchin’ me,” suggest an intimate connection that leaves a lingering taste, both sweet and perhaps a bit painful. The mention of “all the pills that you take” in various colors—violet, blue, green, red—implies attempts to create distance or numb emotions, yet they fail to keep the protagonist away. This imagery highlights a struggle to maintain boundaries in a tumultuous relationship.
The chorus reveals a deep yearning for a gentle, non-hurtful love: “Like if you hold me without hurting me, you’ll be the first who ever did.” This line speaks volumes about past experiences filled with pain and the hope for something different. It’s a plea for tenderness in a world where love has often been damaging.
In the second verse, “Kerosene in my hands, you make me mad, I’m fire again,” Lana uses the metaphor of fire to describe the intensity of her emotions. The kerosene symbolizes potential destruction, hinting at how volatile the relationship can be. Despite the chaos, there’s an underlying desire for connection, “There’s things I wanna say to you, but I’ll just let you live,” indicating a choice to hold back for the sake of the other person.
The repetition of “Hold me, love me, touch me, honey, be the first who ever did” underscores the central theme of the song—a longing for a love that is gentle and healing. It’s a poignant reminder of the scars left by past relationships and the hope for a new beginning. The song’s blend of vulnerability and resilience makes it a standout in Lana Del Rey’s discography, capturing the essence of her signature melancholic style.
