The lyrics of "Born Under a Bad Sign" by Richard Hawley convey a sense of loss and regret. The protagonist reflects on their life, filled with mistakes and missed opportunities. The repetition of being born under a bad sign symbolizes a sense of inherent misfortune and the consequences it has had on their life.

Meaning of "Born Under a Bad Sign" by Richard Hawley

"Born Under a Bad Sign" explores themes of missed opportunities, regret, and a sense of inherent misfortune. The narrator reflects on their life, acknowledging that they have made mistakes and faced the consequences. The repeated phrase "Born under a bad sign" carries a symbolic weight, representing a sense of fatalism or destiny that has plagued the protagonist from the beginning. It suggests that their life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events and circumstances beyond their control.

The lyrics also touch on themes of addiction and escape. The mention of staring at white lines and staying out till dawn hints at a life filled with substance abuse and reckless behavior. The protagonist finds solace and escape in playing the guitar, emphasizing the power of music as a coping mechanism or outlet for their pain.

The mention of laying in the afterglow and someone wanting to know if they belong to them adds a layer of emotional complexity to the song. It suggests a relationship in which the protagonist seeks validation and acceptance, but it is unclear if they can truly give themselves fully to another person due to their past and the weight of their bad luck.

Overall, "Born Under a Bad Sign" conveys a sense of reflection, introspection, and resignation towards a life filled with regret and the consequences of one's actions. It explores universal themes of fate, missed opportunities, and the struggle to find meaning or connection in a world that seems determined to keep the protagonist down.