Meaning of "One Wing" by Wilco

The lyrics of "One Wing" by Wilco speak to the bittersweet nature of relationships that were once strong but have now reached a point of detachment and inevitable separation. The imagery of being like a bird with one wing unable to fly illustrates the feeling of being grounded, stuck, and unable to progress forward. The lines "You were a blessing and I was a curse" and "This is what happens when wings separate" convey the idea that despite having once been positive influences on each other, the time has come for them to part ways. The repetition of "One wing will never ever fly, dear, Neither yours nor mine, I fear we can only wave goodbye" emphasizes the finality and acceptance of the end of the relationship. Overall, the lyrics capture the melancholy and resignation that often accompanies the end of a once-meaningful connection.