Meaning of "Coal Makes Diamonds" by Blue October

"Coal Makes Diamonds" is a song that delves into the theme of the transformative power of love. The lyrics present a metaphorical portrayal of love as something strong and resilient, capable of withstanding the test of time and adversity. The opening lines, "If I'm a desert, my face is the wind. I know where I'm going and I know where I've been," convey a sense of self-awareness and confidence from the narrator. They understand themselves, their past, and their direction in life. The mention of the wind caressing the face establishes a tender and intimate atmosphere.

The subsequent lines, "You're the horizon and the wide open space. And I surround you, caressing your face," reveal the importance of the narrator's partner in their life. The partner is portrayed as an expansive and boundless presence, symbolizing the possibilities and freedom that love can offer. The narrator's desire to give the partner stars indicates how deeply they care and how highly they regard their loved one. However, they recognize that even the stars wouldn't fully capture the extent of their feelings.

The lines, "You're like the lava burning buried below. An eruption but too early to show," metaphorically convey the intense passion and emotions within the relationship. The narrator compares their love to lava buried deep within, waiting to erupt. It hints at the raw power of their connection, but also the need for patience and timing.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the idea of resilience in the face of pressure. The phrase, "Our coal makes diamonds," suggests that through challenges and hardships, their love becomes even more valuable and precious. The comparison to coal transforming into diamonds highlights the transformative nature of their relationship. It suggests that the difficulties they face only strengthen their bond and make their love even more profound.

Overall, "Coal Makes Diamonds" portrays a love that is powerful, transformative, and enduring. It speaks of a deep connection between two individuals who can withstand challenges and come out stronger on the other side.