Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had to Swallow)
The Jam
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In your white lace and your wedding bells You look the picture of contented new wealth But from the on-looking fool who believed your lies I wish this grave would open up and swallow me alive For the bitterest pill is hard to swallow The love I gave hangs in sad colored, mocking shadows When the wheel of fortune broke, you fell to me Out of grey skies to change my misery The vacant spot, your beating heart took its place But now I watch smoke leave my lips and fill an empty room For the bitterest pill is hard to swallow The love I gave hangs in sad colored, mocking shadows The bitterest pill is mine to take If I took if for a hundred years, I couldn't feel any more hate Now autumn's breeze blows summer's leaves through my life Twisted and broken dawn, no days with sunlight The dying spark, you left your mark on me The promise of your kiss, but with someone else For the bitterest pill is mine to swallow The love I gave hangs in sad colored, mocking shadows The bitterest pill is mine to take If I took if for a hundred years, I couldn't feel anymore ill!
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Written by: PAUL JOHN WELLER
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Release Details"The Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had To Swallow)" is a song by The Jam, released in September 1982 as the second single from their sixth and final studio album, “The Gift.”
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Chart PerformanceDespite its melancholic tone, the song was commercially successful. It climbed to number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and stayed there for two weeks.
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Song MeaningThe song is known for its bitter lyrics, which reflect on the hardships of a failed romantic relationship. Many listeners interpret it as frontman Paul Weller's contemplation on the inevitable ending of a relationship.
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Musical CompositionThe song deviates from the band's usual punk rock sound, shifting more towards a soft rock and soul style. It features a haunting orchestral backing, creating a deeply emotional atmosphere.
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Band's BreakupThe release of the song coincided with the period when The Jam was about to split. The personal emotions and pressures of the band's impending break-up may have influenced the song's lyrical content and overall melancholy feel.
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Critical ReceptionCritics praise the song for its raw and relatable portrayal of heartbreak. Its impressive chart position further affirmed its acceptance and popularity among fans and critics alike.
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LegacyDespite the band's breakup shortly after the song's release, "The Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had To Swallow)" remains one of The Jam's most iconic songs and continues to be celebrated within their discography.
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Covers and TributesThis song has been covered by multiple artists in distinct styles, further attesting to its enduring appeal. Notably, British indie rock band The Libertines often used to perform a version of the song in their early shows.
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B-SideThe single was released with a B-side track called "Pity Poor Alfie," which also resonated with fans and has since become a somewhat hidden gem among The Jam's extensive catalogue.
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Music VideoThe accompanying music video for "The Bitterest Pill" was a simple performance clip, reflecting the stripped-back and emotive nature of the song.
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Citation
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"Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had to Swallow) Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 1 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/26100606/The+Jam/Bitterest+Pill+%28I+Ever+Had+to+Swallow%29>.
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