Meaning of "You're Missing" by Bruce Springsteen

"You're Missing" by Bruce Springsteen is a poignant exploration of grief and loss. The lyrics capture the emptiness and longing experienced after the departure of a loved one. The repetition of "everything is everything" highlights the mundane routine of life that continues despite the absence of the person. The presence of everyday objects, such as shirts, shoes, and coffee cups, serve as constant reminders of the person's absence, intensifying the sense of loss. Through lines like "your house is waiting," the longing for the person's return becomes even more palpable. The mention of children yearning for their presence emphasizes the impact the absence has on the family and the void left behind. Springsteen also introduces religious imagery with "God's drifting in heaven, devil's in the mailbox," suggesting that even spiritual comfort fails to alleviate the emotional pain. The final line, "I got dust on my shoes, nothing but teardrops," encapsulates the speaker's desolate state of being, where even the act of walking is burdened by grief. Overall, "You're Missing" delves into the profound ache and the unfillable void caused by the loss of a loved one.