Meaning of "Carrying Cathy" by Ben Folds

The lyrics of "Carrying Cathy" by Ben Folds delve into the themes of empathy, missed opportunities, and the repercussions of neglecting those in need. The narrator paints a picture of a woman named Cathy who is burdened with struggles and pain, while they themselves are too self-absorbed to truly see her cries for help. The repetition of "There was always someone carrying, always someone's carrying Cathy" emphasizes the idea that there is always someone silently bearing a heavy weight, and it is often overlooked by those around them. The narrator's realization of their failure to reach out to Cathy when she needed it the most reflects on the importance of empathy and understanding in relationships. The tragic ending of Cathy's story serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of neglect and the haunting feeling of missed opportunities to make a difference in someone's life.