Meaning of "Before Easter" by Tracy Chapman

The lyrics of "Before Easter" delve into themes of guilt, redemption, and self-worth. The narrator seems to be struggling with deep feelings of shame and regret, believing themselves to be unworthy of forgiveness. By repeatedly stating "I won't let Jesus find me" and expressing a desire to hide from him, the narrator is portraying a lack of self-forgiveness and a fear of facing judgement. The mention of begging, lying, and selling possessions with love all suggest desperate actions taken in the face of guilt and sin. The final lines about having the rock, the needle, and the bottle of sorrow indicate a reliance on substances to numb the pain of guilt. Ultimately, the lyrics convey a sense of hopelessness and a longing for redemption, while also grappling with the internal turmoil of feeling undeserving of it.