Black Coffee

Black Flag's song "Black Coffee" delves into the tumultuous emotions of jealousy, paranoia, and self-doubt. The repetitive imagery of drinking black coffee while staring at the wall serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's obsessive thoughts and emotional turmoil. The stark, bitter taste of black coffee mirrors the bitterness of the feelings being experienced. The lyrics suggest a sense of entrapment, as the protagonist is caught in a cycle of anger and suspicion, unable to escape their own mind.

The recurring line, "stab through my heart, but it's all in my mind," highlights the internal nature of the protagonist's suffering. Despite the intense emotional pain, the protagonist acknowledges that these feelings are self-inflicted and not necessarily based on reality. This internal conflict is further emphasized by the line, "It's my turn to be jealous, now I don't stand for it all," indicating a struggle with feelings of inadequacy and the irrational nature of jealousy.

The song also touches on themes of paranoia and infidelity, as seen in the line, "If the night goes on, paranoia adultery." The protagonist's inability to see "the other side of the wall" symbolizes the lack of clarity and understanding in their relationship, leading to a sense of isolation and frustration. The repetitive nature of the lyrics and the driving rhythm of the music reflect the relentless nature of these obsessive thoughts, creating a powerful and relatable depiction of emotional distress.