Meaning of "True Sadness" by The Avett Brothers

The lyrics of "True Sadness" by The Avett Brothers delve into various themes and emotions. The song starts with the narrator acknowledging the support and friendship they received from someone during a difficult period in their life. Despite the friend saying there is no need to repay them, the narrator is determined to express their gratitude. The reference to depending on a bottle when the narrator was a child and as an adult demonstrates the struggles of addiction. The lyrics also address the issue of imposters in the world, praising the friend as the "real deal" amidst a sea of fake individuals. The line "I've seen the program make men out of monsters" suggests that society can sometimes corrupt and transform people for the worse.

The song then shifts towards societal pressures placed on women, using the character of Angela as an example. Angela becomes an object of desire for young men, reducing her down to mere physical appearance and sexual objectification. The lyrics challenge this reductionism and question whether Angela, and by extension all women, are not more than their physical attributes. The song highlights the dreams and aspirations that women have beyond societal expectations and emphasizes the need for them to be seen and respected for their entirety.

The lyrics take a turn towards the biblical, referencing Adam and Eve's actions in the Garden of Eden. The lyrics suggest that Adam and Eve's disobedience and consumption of the forbidden apple left behind a debt of sadness and damage that cannot be repaired or replenished. This reference serves as a reflection on the consequences of human actions and the lasting impact they can have on the world.

The song concludes with a reflection on the internal struggle between good and evil. The narrator feels weighed down by the evil inside them and the negativity they encounter when stepping out into the world. Yet, there is a glimmer of hope offered through the mention of the kingdom of God being within. Despite the ongoing battle between good and evil, the lyrics remind listeners to hold onto the belief that goodness and righteousness are still present.