Meaning of "Starlight" by Lori McKenna

The lyrics of "Starlight" by Lori McKenna delve into themes of disillusionment, loneliness, and the struggle to hold onto hope in the face of hardship. The repeated references to brokenness and unfulfilled wishes paint a picture of someone who feels lost and defeated by life's challenges. The imagery of the starlight, traditionally associated with hope and wishes, is contrasted with the gritty reality of a barking dog, cold coffee, and stained kitchen towels. The narrator is searching for something to hold onto amidst the difficulties they face, expressing a desire for connection and perseverance. The references to the church bell not ringing and the stop light stuck further emphasize a sense of stagnation and being trapped in a cycle of disappointment. However, the promise to never give up on each other, between the narrator and the starlight, hints at a glimmer of hope and determination to keep going, even when things seem bleak. Ultimately, the song captures a poignant and relatable sentiment of grappling with despair while still holding onto a flicker of hope for better days ahead.