Meaning of "Run-Around" by Blues Traveler

The song "Run-Around" by Blues Traveler explores the themes of deception, longing for honesty, and the desire for a genuine connection with another person. The lyrics depict the narrator waking up with a memory of a phone call, feeling deceived by a trusted friend who told them lies. This deception leaves the narrator questioning the authenticity of their relationships and expressing a certain degree of fear regarding what the future holds.

The chorus repeatedly asks the other person why they want to give the narrator a run-around, suggesting that they feel manipulated and misled. The narrator wonders if this run-around is a way for the other person to speed up the pace of the relationship, even though it only slows them down emotionally. There is a longing for a deeper connection and genuine understanding, as expressed by the lines "And I want you to reach me, show me all the things no one else can see." The narrator desires a level of emotional intimacy where their feelings are shared and understood by the other person, ultimately hoping for a mutual and unbreakable bond.

The lyrics also delve into a sense of resilience and self-assurance. The line "And I got some news for you, it seems my ship still stands no matter what you drop, and there ain't a whole lot that you can do" portrays the narrator's confidence and ability to withstand the challenges thrown their way. They acknowledge that they have become somewhat cynical due to past experiences, but they remain optimistic and committed to finding something genuine and fulfilling. The song culminates in the narrator expressing their love for the other person to the point where they can no longer bear it and hoping that there is something left to salvage in the relationship.

Overall, "Run-Around" conveys the universal longing for honesty and genuine connection in relationships. It addresses the frustration of feeling deceived and manipulated, while also highlighting the narrator's resilience and hope for a deeper emotional bond.