Meaning of "Black And Blue" by Gregory Alan Isakov

The lyrics of "Black And Blue" delve into themes of missed opportunities, regret, and the longing for connection. The opening line, "I see boxes...fills up a room," suggests a cluttered mind, filled with untold thoughts and unresolved emotions. This imagery reflects the weight of the unexpressed feelings that the speaker carries. The line "All the things I never told you still glooming" further emphasizes the lingering presence of unsaid words.

The repeated phrase "And I try though, I try though" conveys the speaker's efforts to express themselves and bridge the emotional distance that exists between them and the person they address. However, the line "Talking never seems to do it" suggests a recurring failure in communication and an inability to truly convey their feelings.

The reference to "red hearts and the dust of June" evokes nostalgic memories, emphasizing the longing for past love and intimacy. The speaker yearns for the taste of the person they miss, symbolizing the desire for the connection they once had. This longing is further highlighted in the line "The night now, it's as dark as the crows, that call me in the discernment above," where the darkness and the presence of crows represent the weight of the speaker's emotions and the haunting nature of their unfulfilled desires.

The repetition of the line "Oh they won't let me be... closer to you" speaks to the frustration and anguish the speaker feels. Despite their longing and attempts to bridge the emotional gap, the pain of the past lingers and prevents them from getting closer to the person they miss.

Overall, "Black And Blue" explores the complex emotions surrounding missed opportunities, regret, and the yearning for connection. The lyrics delve into the complexities of communication, the weight of untold words, and the pain of longing for someone who is seemingly out of reach.