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Chartered Territory

by Ann Gray

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Thomas Marohl
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about

I wrote Chartered Territory after a particularly confusing, capricious breakup, one that mainly happened over text while I was studying abroad in Paris. The song combines both the distressing nature of a prolonged breakup ironically mixed with the beautiful scenery of France, as I tried not to think about it and let it ruin my trip (although such was obviously in vain if you listen closely to the lyrics). It contains such evocative, emotional lines as “and every Parisian cashier’s probably mesmerized by every single souvenir postcard I hesitantly buy for you, cause who knows if we’ll make it by the time that the mail goes through.”

lyrics

I wash you out of my hair
With a vinaigrette of European scents
I bet you didn’t bother to learn
The time zone of my temporary continent

You sent an emoji at 12 AM my time
I dove in the faucet drippings of its blue light
And every Parisian cashier's probably mesmerized
By every souvenir postcard I hesitantly buy for you
'Cause who knows if we’ll make it by the time that the mail goes through

But this is chartered territory and I’m criss cross in the customs line
Cause I’ve been here before with my finger pulsing on my phone's Do Not Disturb sign
And I’m this close to pressing it, this close to ending it, this close to letting you know
But for now I’ll just choke it all back in a travel-sized lump in my throat

You’re nestled under my skin
So I sauté its cartilage with the splotches of a sunburn
Risked my ringer in a silent cathedral
Just to watch it respect the stained glass and stay taciturn

Bought souvenirs for all your family members
Each individual gift was personally catered
Paced the Louvre with a pencil and paper
To prepare text messages that I’ll procrastinate for later
Instead pretend I bought these artisan chocolates for my neighbors

But this is chartered territory and I’m criss cross in the customs line
Cause I’ve been here before with my finger pulsing on my phone's Do Not Disturb sign
And I’m this close to pressing it, this close to ending it, this close to finally saying no
But for now I’ll just choke it all back in a travel-sized lump in my throat

And god I feel stupid
How could you do this to a girl so paranoid that you’d do it
I’ll fill the recycling with each souvenir
Rid any trace of your voice from my ears
Said you’d always regret this and I’d have to agree
'Cause I gave you my all and you gave me a read receipt

But this is chartered territory and I’m criss cross in the customs line
Cause I’ve been here before with my finger pulsing on my phone's Do Not Disturb sign
And I’m this close to pressing it, this close to ending it, this close to finally saying no
But for now I’ll just choke it all back in a travel-sized lump in my throat

credits

released April 19, 2024
Lyrics and Music by Ann Gray
Vocals and guitar -- Ann Gray
Piano -- Johnny Terrell

Recorded and mixed by John Terrell at Soul Haven Studios, in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Mastered by Izzy McPhee at Weird Jungle Collective

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Ann Gray Norfolk, Virginia

A captivating indie-pop artist weaving introspective tales with infectious melodies. Her evocative vocals and honest lyrics resonate deeply, capturing the essence of life's joys and struggles. Immerse yourself in her enchanting soundscapes that blend vulnerability and strength, inviting listeners on a journey of self-discovery. ... more

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