Meaning of "Killing The Blues" by Chris Smither

"Killing the Blues" explores the dichotomy between outward appearances and inner emotions. The leaves falling and setting the speaker on fire symbolize the change of seasons and the passing of time, which brings about both beauty and destruction. The mention of swinging the world by the tail and bouncing over the white clouds suggests a sense of accomplishment and joy. However, the repetition of the phrase "killing the blues" throughout the song indicates that the speaker is masking their true emotions and trying to escape the sadness they feel. The guilt they feel hints at a fear of losing oneself in love, as it ultimately leads to pain and disappointment. The request to leave and find what they already had reflects a longing for the past and a search for one's true self. The repetition of the accusation of swinging the world by the tail and killing the blues suggests a struggle between the desire to appear happy and the yearning for inner peace. Ultimately, the lyrics convey a sense of inner conflict, the weight of sadness, and the search for authenticity.