Meaning of "Black Cow" by Steely Dan

The lyrics of "Black Cow" explore themes of addiction, shame, and relationship struggles. The narrator views the person in the bar with a mixture of sympathy and concern. The person's intoxication and shame are evident, as they possess a book of numbers and remedies to alleviate their sorrow. However, the narrator questions the effectiveness of these remedies and wonders about the person's future. The line "But where are you tomorrow" implies uncertainty about whether the person will be able to overcome their struggles or if they will continue on a destructive path.

As the song progresses, the narrator's perspective transitions from caring to indifference. They no longer feel compelled to cry over the person's behavior. The repeated line "I can't cry anymore" suggests emotional exhaustion and a disconnection from the person's actions. The narrator encourages the person to leave, implying that their presence is no longer welcomed or needed. The repetition of the phrase "get out of here" reinforces this desire for separation.

The line "You change your name like a gangster on the run" suggests that the person may be trying to escape their problems by adopting a new identity. However, the mention of returning home to someone they hold dear indicates that they are not completely cutting ties with their past. The narrator, on the other hand, takes on the role of the responsible one and expresses a desire to "make everything right" and "talk it out till daylight." This can be seen as a reflection of the narrator's emotional investment in the person and their relationship, but it also highlights their own need for resolution and closure.

The repeated word "outrageous" serves to emphasize the unexpected or extreme nature of the situation. It may signify the narrator's astonishment at the person's behavior or the overall complexity of their relationship. Ultimately, the lyrics of "Black Cow" explore the struggles of addiction, the challenges of maintaining a relationship with someone who is constantly running away, and the eventual emotional detachment and desire for separation.