Meaning of "Give It A Name" by Jerry Cantrell

"Give It A Name" by Jerry Cantrell delves into the concept of facing and naming one's fears and struggles to confront them. The repeated chorus lines encourage listeners to identify their internal demons by naming them, metaphorically represented by a howling blue hound chasing fears and haunting individuals. By acknowledging these fears, it becomes possible to distance oneself from them, as suggested by getting them "out of your home" and "out of your eye." The lyrics also touch on the idea that the roles we play in life eventually become part of our identity, hinting at the importance of authenticity and self-awareness. The line "in the end we are what we pretend to be" implies that authenticity is crucial in shaping who we are. Additionally, the song promotes facing reality and embracing truth, even if it is painful, as a means of freeing oneself from fear and self-deception. Overall, the song serves as a reflection on the power of introspection, self-acceptance, and the transformative nature of embracing the truth.