Meaning of "Lick Your Wounds" by Andy Shauf

"Lick Your Wounds" explores themes of self-acceptance, vulnerability, and the complexities of love. The painted doorway and open-mindedness in the first line suggest the potential for growth and transformation. The creaking stair set symbolizes the journey towards a higher state of being, as the speaker implores their partner to join them on this path. By asking their partner to close their blue eyes and kiss their dry lips, the speaker seeks a deep connection that transcends physicality. They want their partner to intimately understand their pain and experience the lessons they've learned.

The speaker admits to stumbling and mumbling, indicating their own shortcomings and struggles with communication. Despite these flaws, the speaker questions their worthiness of being in a relationship ("Who am I to fall in something / Close to loving, ever hurting?"). This line reflects a deep insecurity and fear of hurting their partner. However, they also recognize the healing potential of love as they ask their partner to find their heartbeat and cure their senses. This suggests that the speaker believes their partner has the power to heal their emotional wounds and provide a sense of solace.

The repetition of "close your blue eyes, kiss my dry lips" highlights the longing for emotional closeness and understanding. It also underscores the speaker's desire for their partner to fully embrace their pain rather than run from it. The final line, "Fall in love with my own loneliness," reveals a profound acceptance of their solitude and the recognition that their partner will need to embrace it as well.

Overall, "Lick Your Wounds" delves into the complexities of love and the desire for a deep, intimate connection that involves accepting each other's flaws and embracing personal pain. It explores the vulnerability that arises when asking someone to love and understand one's inner struggles, and it highlights the transformative power of such a connection.