Expert: Joe - 5/28/2006

Question
In a past question someone asked about the meaning of glycerine, and you said something about the actor's fake tears could be a clue. I was thinking, since the success of the band caused the break-up, and glycerine is about her, couldn't it be a symbol that it's like nitro-glycerine, so good and useful, but can mess you up if you're not careful with it?  

Answer
I would say that is a reasonable theory!  I have to admit it is one that I never considered in all these years of talking about the song.

I can never get past wondering if the word Glycerine itself is just a surreal concept Gavin put in that has no real meaning...  and the poetry around the word is what really counts.

The only man who really knows has never said.

Good thoughts, and when asked the question in future I shall certainly mention your theory.  It is a good interpretation.  Without a doubt the success and not being careful was the reason for the break-up.  Too fast, too much happening all at once.

-Joe