Meaning of "Handwritten" by The Gaslight Anthem

"Handwritten" by The Gaslight Anthem delves into the themes of connection, shared experiences, and the healing power of music and writing. The narrator finds solace in their favorite song, recognizing that others may be feeling the same way they do. The lines about waiting for sirens that never come could symbolize waiting for salvation or help that may never arrive, underscoring a sense of longing and disappointment. Writing by the moon and every word being handwritten can signify the personal nature of expressing oneself through writing, as opposed to mass-produced or electronic communication. The repeated lines about missing someone and seeking forgiveness reveal an underlying theme of regret and a desire for closure. The closing lines about cherishing the moonlight and the act of writing as a form of commitment suggest a deep connection between the narrator's emotions, experiences, and the act of putting words to them. Overall, the song conveys a message of seeking understanding, finding fellowship in shared struggles, and the therapeutic nature of self-expression through writing.