Meaning of "Black, Blue" by The Avett Brothers

The lyrics of "Black, Blue" by The Avett Brothers paint a picture of inner turmoil and confusion, as the protagonist grapples with the weight of their own emotions and the expectations placed upon them by society. The repeated references to colors like black and blue convey a sense of darkness and sadness, while white and green symbolize purity and hope. The lines "Nobody will say, Oh what a fine young upstanding man, With his ducks in a row, and his fifty-year-plan, Complete with an ending" showcase the pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, despite feeling lost and unsure about the future. The mention of Cupid's arrow being "backwards and bent" suggests that love and relationships have failed to bring the protagonist fulfillment. Overall, the lyrics delve into themes of self-doubt, longing for lost innocence, and the struggle to find one's true self amidst external pressures.