Meaning of “The Frost” by Mitski
In the lyrics of “The Frost”, Mitski uses vivid imagery to express feelings of loneliness and abandonment. The “frost” serves as a metaphor for a life that feels stale and devoid of warmth and connection. The reference to being the only one left, potentially after some kind of tragic event or personal loss, amplifies the sense of isolation.
Verse 1
In the first verse, Mitski describes waking up to a world covered in frost, hinting at a life that feels static, perhaps paused in a melancholy moment. She indicates feeling abandoned, possibly because of hiding or being forgotten, and now having to carry memories alone, devoid of anyone to share them with.
Verse 2
The second verse further explores the pain of losing a close relationship, specifically referring to losing a “best friend.” Mitski uses the imagery of an “attic” to symbolize being pushed out of sight and mind — a place where things are stored and forgotten. The repeated mention of “frost” connects back to the feeling of being stuck in a cold, loveless, and lonely state.
“The frost, it looks like dust
Settled on the world
After everyone’s long been gone
But me, I was hidin’, or forgotten
The only one left
Now the world is mine alone
With no one, no one to share the memory
Of frost out the window this morning
After you’re gone
And the house is mine alone”
The Long and Short of “The Frost”
Overall, “The Frost” reveals a deep sense of loss and longing, coupled with a realization of being alone in holding onto certain memories and experiences, painting a picture of someone navigating a world devoid of the companionship and understanding that a best friend offers. It’s a heart-rending look at solitude and the longing for connection, underlined by vivid and cold imagery to bring out the stark reality of loneliness.
When was “The Frost” released?
“The Frost” is from Mitski’s project named “The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We”. It was made available to the public on Friday 15th September 2023.
Writing & Production
Like several of the tracks on the aforementioned album, “The Frost” is also credited as written entirely by Mitski.
American record engineer Patrick Hyland was also involved in the creation of this track. He handled the production duties for the song.
