Meaning of "Call A Spade A Spade" by Turnpike Troubadours

The lyrics of "Call A Spade A Spade" delve into the complex emotions and dynamics of a relationship that has become stagnant and destructive. The narrator describes their partner as someone with a powerful presence ("you got a heart big enough to kill us all"), but also acknowledges their own vulnerability and the inevitability of the fall ("when you fall, well damn you fall"). There is a sense of being trapped in the cycle of attraction and disappointment.

The narrator recognizes the patterns they have been caught up in before, and the allure of the other person ("you've got a look that could drop me dead here on the floor"). They acknowledge the sweetness of their touch but ultimately decide that it's time to move on ("I gotta go"). Despite the complexities and complications of the situation, the narrator questions whether they should continue dancing around the truth or face it head-on ("can we call a spade a spade").

The lyrics also touch on the theme of denial and self-delusion. The narrator admits to hiding their feelings ("gotta try awful hard to keep it hidden") and acting like a child in their affair ("been acting like a kid"). They recognize that it's time to leave and move on from the situation, despite the emotional attachment ("it's time to leave yeah it's time to leave").

Ultimately, the lyrics convey a sense of resignation and self-realization. The narrator realizes that the relationship is not based on love ("this ain't love"), and that they need to break free from the destructive cycle they find themselves in. The repeated question of "can we call a spade a spade" reflects their yearning for honesty and a desire to face the truth, even if it may be painful.