Black & Blue
Being As An Ocean
The Metaphorical Abyss of Love and Despair in 'Black & Blue'
Being As An Ocean's song 'Black & Blue' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and existential dread that often accompany love and failure. The lyrics are rich with metaphors, comparing love to a fall to the bottom and the subsequent impact of hitting the floor. This imagery suggests a profound sense of loss and betrayal, as the narrator recalls past experiences of numbness and sickness, likely stemming from a failed relationship. The repetition of falling to the floor emphasizes the depth of the emotional pain experienced.
The song further explores the theme of failure, both in love and in personal strength. The narrator reflects on their own shortcomings, questioning their worthiness and strength. This introspection is tied to the metaphor of death, which represents the fear of not being good enough for what comes next. The recurring imagery of being beaten 'black and blue' by a hand, a storm, and even the chill of autumn, paints a vivid picture of the relentless and multifaceted nature of their suffering.
Despite the overwhelming despair, the song ends on a note of defiance and resilience. The narrator presents a choice: to remain in their current state of suffering or to fight their way back into the light, inch by inch. This final message of perseverance amidst adversity offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that even in the darkest times, there is a possibility for redemption and recovery.