Meaning of "Goodbye (Interlude)" by I Prevail

"Goodbye (Interlude)" delves into the emotional impact of losing a loved one without the opportunity for closure. The lyrics depict a significant event in the narrator's life, the sudden loss of their mother in 2016. The song's title, "Goodbye," emphasizes the absence of a farewell from the mother, leaving the narrator with a lingering sense of pain and confusion.

The opening lines set the scene, with the narrator recalling their initial encounter with the news on a bus in Pittsburgh. The mention of their mother being the "first word" highlights her significance in their life. The urgency is amplified when the narrator reveals that their mother was concerned and went to investigate something at the door. This sets the stage for a tragic turn of events.

As the paramedics arrive, the lyrics describe their futile efforts to resuscitate the mother, indicating that her fate was sealed before their arrival. The line, "By the time they arrived it was too late," reinforces the feeling of helplessness and loss. The narrator wonders if their mother's condition was deteriorating and if she was battling inner demons, metaphorically represented as being submerged beneath dark waters.

The following lines express the narrator's frustration and confusion. They admit to being at a loss for words, illustrating the complexity of their emotions. The mention of Mount St. Joseph suggests a possible hospital or treatment center, potentially implying that the mother was seeking help or treatment. The narrator's desire to keep doors open despite the need for closure metaphorically represents their struggle to let go and move on.

The song's chorus repeats the phrase "You never said goodbye," emphasizing the absence of a proper farewell from the mother. The repeated line intensifies the feelings of grief, as the narrator grapples with the pain and unanswered questions surrounding their mother's death. The lyrics capture the deep impact that this lack of closure has on the narrator, as they question the reasons behind their mother's untimely departure and the pain she must have experienced.

Overall, "Goodbye (Interlude)" presents a poignant reflection on the loss of a loved one, particularly the absence of a final farewell. It delves into the emotional ramifications of not being able to understand or say goodbye to someone who played such an important role in one's life.