Meaning of "Chemicals" by Gregory Alan Isakov

The lyrics of "Chemicals" delve into the complexities of human emotions and the impact they have on our lives and relationships. The mention of coffee burning and the stomach churning alludes to the physical effects of chemicals like caffeine, which can heighten emotions and intensify feelings. The line "You saw her bathing in the creek, now you're jealous of the water" speaks to the irrationality of jealousy, how something as simple as observing someone else's experience can trigger envy and longing. The protagonist of the song expresses a sense of loneliness and acknowledges the emptiness that resides within them. They have been "running solo," but it hasn't been fulfilling. The lyrics suggest that there is a void within them that can't be filled with material possessions or external experiences.

The recurring line "Was it just chemicals in my head" suggests that the intense emotions and experiences they had with someone may be attributed to the chemical reactions happening in their brain. It calls into question the authenticity of those emotions and whether they were justified or merely a result of chemistry. This line hints at the idea that emotions can be fleeting and subjective, and it challenges the protagonist's perception of their own experiences.

The second half of the song touches on the fragility of relationships and the uncertainty that comes with them. The mention of pages flying around in the yard and the inability to find each other's hands in the dark symbolize the confusion and disconnection that can occur within a relationship. The lyrics also question how they ended up in their current situation and how the force of gravity seems to have disappeared, leaving them in a state of uncertainty.

Overall, "Chemicals" explores themes of longing, emptiness, and the inherent complexities of human emotions. It delves into the impact of external factors like chemicals and the mysterious nature of attraction, highlighting the fragility and unpredictability of relationships.