The lyrics of “Blackbirds” by Erin Mckeown tell the story of four and twenty blackbirds perched over a milhaus floor, watching a pair of blackbirds sing about love and freedom as they eventually fly away.

Meaning of "Blackbirds" by Erin Mckeown

The lyrics of “Blackbirds” can be interpreted as a metaphor for love, romance, and freedom. The blackbirds represent individuals in a relationship, with the king and queen symbolizing a couple who sing together about their love and dreams of a better life. The act of flying away could signify the end of the relationship, with one bird feeling lucky to escape while the other is left behind to deal with the consequences of their choices. The imagery of blackbird pie could suggest the bitter aftermath of a failed relationship, with one partner regretting their actions. Overall, the song explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of human relationships.