The song '510 Apt. 3' by Mourners paints a vivid picture of a turbulent relationship set against the backdrop of life in Brooklyn in 2012. The lyrics reflect on shared experiences between two individuals living together, facing ups and downs, including financial struggles, substance use, and emotional turbulence. Despite the effort they put into the relationship ('We tried so hard'), the chorus echoes a sentiment of inadequacy ('But our hardest wasn't even enough') and a lingering hope for reconciliation ('Do you think that we could try it again?'). The song captures the complexity of relationships marred by personal demons, nostalgia, and the yearning for a second chance.
The song instantly transports the listener to the authentic setting of a Brooklyn apartment, with references like 'Curled up on my greenish couch' and 'Menus that got shoved under our door.' The scene is painted with details that invoke struggle and intimacy. The emotional journey commences with a bittersweet nostalgia wherein the artist remembers the sentimentality during significant historical moments like Obama's speech and how they coexisted amidst daily adversities such as roach-infested kitchens and the mundane monotony of making beds.
As the emotional journey unfolds, the artist touches on the darker aspects of their shared existence, from 'Jealousy psychosis' to blacking out on Ambien, bringing forth the theme of mental health struggles. These struggles are juxtaposed with moments of closeness and affinity, like drunk late-night snacks and quirky observations of each other. The emotional rollercoaster paints a picture of troubled love, where moments of tenderness are clouded by a landscape of instability and toxicity.
The chorus punctuates the emotional journey, revealing the crux of the internal conflict—the insufficiency of their collective efforts in the relationship. The repetition of 'We tried so hard' emphasizes the exertion and emotional labor invested. Yet, it is followed by the bleaker admission 'But our hardest wasn't even enough,' suggesting a sense of failure and disillusionment. Despite the anguish, there's a desperate appeal—'don't go'—highlighting a flicker of hope and a desire not to let go.
The final verse serves as an emotional climax that segues into resignation and introspection. The acknowledgment of self-medication and repressed rage suggests an understanding of the underlying personal issues contributing to the relationship's dysfunction. The lyrics 'And I found God swimming in my serotonin' perhaps allude to the artist finding moments of enlightenment amid their depression or drug use. The outro leaves the emotional narrative open-ended, with the repeated question of willingness to try again, reflecting the enduring human hope for redemption and the restoration of love.
"You cried during Obama's speech"
This line references a significant political moment, specifically the re-election of President Barack Obama in 2012. The emotional response to the speech signals a shared experience and perhaps a profound moment for the couple.
"The diner trapped in nineteen eighty-three"
This line evokes nostalgia and suggests that the diner they frequented seemed frozen in time, reminding them of simpler days or more stable periods in their life.
"Lived off the GRL"
This likely refers to living in an area serviced by the G subway line in New York City, which is often joked about for its unreliability and inconvenience—another testament to the hardships faced.
"I'm self-medicating, I'm repressing rage"
This line candidly discusses dealing with emotional turmoil through substance use as well as concealing anger, alluding to the internal challenges that affect relationships.