Meaning of "Blues Run the Game" by Laura Marling

The lyrics of "Blues Run the Game" can be interpreted as a reflection on the universal nature of sadness and loneliness. The repeated phrase "wherever I have gone" suggests that these emotions are not tied to any specific location but are instead a constant companion. The mention of catching a boat to England or Spain may imply a desperate attempt to escape or find solace, but the blues persist regardless. The references to whiskey, gin, and room service evoke a sense of indulgence and self-destructive behavior that temporarily masks the pain. However, even when not drinking, the narrator's mind is consumed by thoughts of their sadness. The lyrics also touch upon the notion that life itself is a gamble and that love can bring its own set of emotional turmoil. The repeated line "wherever I've rolled them dice" suggests that no matter the outcome, the blues remain. The closing lines reinforce the idea that the blues are inescapable, as even in different cities or towns, they inevitably follow. Overall, the song encapsulates the idea that sadness and loneliness are part of the human experience, and no matter where one goes, the blues will always persist.