Meaning of "Long Sleeves" by Black Stone Cherry

The lyrics of "Long Sleeves" delve into the psychological aftermath of witnessing and experiencing trauma. The constant repetition of "Don't ask why, I've seen children die, watched men take their lives, I've seen women cry" reflects the haunting nature of these memories that the singer carries with him. The reference to wearing long sleeves, likely to cover scars or marks from the past, symbolizes the need to conceal one's pain and protect oneself from further harm. The imagery of pushing through the sand, yearning to make a parent proud, and feeling the weight of past experiences all contribute to the emotional depth of the song. Ultimately, "Long Sleeves" portrays the struggle to cope with the past, the desire for reconnection with home and family, and the internal conflict between confronting and burying traumatic memories.