Meaning of "Empty Sky" by Bruce Springsteen

"Empty Sky" by Bruce Springsteen delves into the feelings of emptiness, loss, and longing. The song begins with the narrator waking up in the morning and feeling a deep sense of emptiness and loneliness. The bed where their loved one used to lay is now vacant, leaving behind just an empty impression. This image symbolizes the absence of the lost relationship and the emotional void it has created. The desire for a kiss from the lips and an eye for an eye suggests a longing for reciprocity, seeking an equal exchange of love or justice. The repetition of "empty sky" throughout the song reinforces the theme of emptiness, emphasizing the vast and desolate nature of the narrator's emotional state.

The mention of blood on the streets and the blood flowing down represents a shift in the song's imagery. It introduces a larger theme of violence and conflict. The narrator hears the cries of their own blood in the voices of their ancestors or people connected to them. This connection to blood implies a shared history or collective suffering, adding a deeper layer to the song's exploration of loss and emptiness. The mention of the plains of Jordan and cutting a bow from a tree alludes to biblical references. Jordan is often associated with baptism and spiritual journeys, adding a religious undertone to the lyrics. The act of cutting a bow from the wood carries symbolism of making choices between good and evil. This suggests that despite the emptiness and loss experienced by the narrator, they are still grappling with moral dilemmas and seeking balance in their own journey.

Overall, "Empty Sky" conveys a sense of emptiness, loss, and longing, while also touching on themes of violence, heritage, and personal choices. The lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences of emptiness and the decisions they make in response to it.