Meaning of "Roll It On Home" by John Mayer

"Roll It On Home" is a melancholic song that captures the emotions of someone seeking refuge in a bar after experiencing heartbreak. The lyrics speak to the somber atmosphere, as the narrator indulges in a last drink with wishful thinking, only to have another one again. The bar setting is described as getting brighter, but at the same time, the walls are closing in, symbolizing the conflicting emotions and sense of confinement the narrator feels.

The jukebox playing the song "Don't let the believin' end" acts as both a reminder and a plea for the narrator to hold onto hope and not give up on love completely. However, it is revealed that the person they had eyes for is interested in their best friend, adding to their feelings of rejection and loneliness.

The chorus emphasizes the narrator's struggle to find someone who will love them the way they desire, highlighting their longing for companionship. The mention of finishing out the bottle or stepping into the light suggests that they have two choices – to drown their sorrows in alcohol or to face reality and move forward.

The second verse touches on the narrator's attachment to their past. They admit to engaging in conversations with their ex, yet they still hope for a message or a sign on their phone. This reveals their reluctance to let go and move on from a relationship that has already ended. The line about being in the bar so long that tonight already feels like yesterday emphasizes their sense of stagnation and the repetitive nature of their current situation.

In the final chorus, the protagonist encourages themselves to confront their circumstances and make a change. Though nobody may love them right or take them in, they urge themselves to drop a couple dollars and bum themselves a light, which can be interpreted as taking a small step towards redirecting their path and finding solace in their own actions.

The overall meaning of "Roll It On Home" is one of seeking solace and hope amidst heartbreak and loneliness. It explores the struggle to let go of the past and find the strength to move forward, even when it feels like nobody is there to support or love you. The song serves as a reminder that tomorrow holds another chance for a fresh start if you have the courage to roll with it and leave the past behind.