The narrator uses soap to wash away the dirt from their face, and a pencil to write and erase. However, they are left feeling lost and replaced when someone else takes their place. They know how to stop at a red light and protect themselves from rain, but they don't know how to deal with the pain of losing someone they love. They hope to find a way to move on and wash away their sorrow, but they wake up to a world where their love is not reciprocated. Their ambitions fade away along with the person they cared about, and it becomes difficult for them to let go and move on. They hope that this time, they can take things slower and find a new path.

Meaning of "Soap (I Use The)" by David Gates

The lyrics of "Soap (I Use The)" by David Gates depict the narrator's struggle to cope with the loss of a loved one. The use of soap and a pencil symbolize the methods they use to cleanse themselves physically and emotionally. However, these simple actions cannot heal the pain of being replaced by someone else. The narrator is well-aware of practical matters, like stopping at a red light and taking cover in the rain, but they are lost when it comes to dealing with heartbreak.

The line "But what's to do when someone's taken my place with you" reveals the insecurities and feelings of inadequacy the narrator experiences, as they question why they were replaced. They feel the weight of rejection and a sense of worthlessness. The repetition of "do do do do do" and "etc" emphasizes the futility and emptiness they feel in trying to plan for a future that no longer includes the person they loved. The hope to "wash off the sorrow" highlights their desire for a fresh start and to rid themselves of the pain.

The lyrics also convey a sense of disillusionment and loss of purpose. The narrator wakes up to a world where everything they once cherished is gone. Their ambition, which was likely intertwined with their relationship, disappears into thin air when they realize the other person no longer cares. This realization leaves the narrator feeling adrift, struggling to find a sense of direction or a purpose in life without their loved one. The line "my emotions find it hard to let go" reflects the difficulty of moving on and the lingering attachment they have towards the person who has moved on.

However, there is a glimmer of hope towards the end of the song. The narrator acknowledges that they need to find a new road to travel, suggesting a willingness to seek a fresh start and move forward. They express a desire to take things more slowly, indicating a lesson learned from their past experience. It implies a commitment to self-reflection and growth, as they navigate the complexities of love and loss.