Meaning of "Blue Overall" by XTC

The song "Blue Overall" delves into the deep feelings of sadness and disappointment that can accompany unrequited love. The singer expresses feelings of being trapped and caged by their own emotions, illustrated through imagery of blue birds flying apart, bones caging a stupid heart, and hammer-headed sharks symbolizing fears. The lyrics also touch on a sense of betrayal, as the singer realizes that they were not truly loved but rather used. Despite trying to distract themselves with work or ignore their feelings, the sadness persists, turning everything in their world blue. The repeated phrase "for all this time, I really thought you loved me" highlights the pain of realizing that love was not reciprocated. Overall, "Blue Overall" captures the essence of feeling overwhelmed by sadness, loneliness, and unfulfilled love.