The lyrics of "Sinking" express feelings of loneliness, isolation, and despair. The repetition of lines emphasizing the pain of being alone, coupled with images of coldness, falling, and sinking convey a sense of deep emotional struggle and hopelessness.

Meaning of "Sinking" by Black Flag

"Sinking" by Black Flag delves into the experience of profound loneliness and its emotional toll on an individual. The repetition of the phrase "It hurts to be alone" throughout the song underscores the intense pain and sorrow that comes with feeling isolated. The various images of coldness, sinking, falling, and caving in paint a bleak picture of emotional distress and despair. The lyrics convey a sense of being trapped in a cycle of negative emotions, unable to break free from the overwhelming loneliness. The references to feeling like one's heart is caving in and staring at one's grave evoke a haunting sense of mortality and existential dread. Overall, the song captures the raw and visceral experience of struggling with isolation and the profound impact it can have on one's mental and emotional well-being.