Meaning of "Wish You Were Here" by Ryan Adams

The lyrics of "Wish You Were Here" by Ryan Adams convey a poignant sense of longing and despair. The references to cotton candy in a rotten mouth and being totally messed up suggest a feeling of decay and disillusionment. The repeated lines about everyone knowing the way the speaker walks, talks, and feels about the person they desire, emphasize a sense of isolation and an inability to escape from their own self-destructive patterns. The vivid imagery of streets turning into boulevards and houses with backyards contrasts sharply with the speaker's inner turmoil, as rain falls heavily on cars in a grim scene. The mention of taking drugs to escape reality and smile, hints at seeking temporary relief from pain. Overall, the song captures a deep emotional yearning for connection and escape from a bleak reality.