The speaker is expressing feelings of being lost and empty after a loved one has left, feeling like just a shadow in a world that lacks light and meaning. Despite the heartbreak and confusion, the speaker still holds onto love and hopes to be led out of the darkness of "shadowland."

Meaning of "Shadowland" by K.d. Lang

The lyrics of "Shadowland" convey deep emotions of heartache and longing, symbolized by the imagery of being a shadow in a world devoid of light. The speaker is devastated by the departure of a loved one, feeling empty and lost without them. Despite this pain, there is a persistent hope that love will guide them out of this darkness. The mention of dreams and plans turning into shadows emphasizes the shattered hopes and broken promises that often accompany lost love. The introspective questioning of why the relationship ended and the acknowledgment of potential mistakes add a layer of complexity and self-reflection to the lyrics. Overall, "Shadowland" captures the universal experience of heartbreak and the desire to find a way out of the emotional turmoil that follows.