Sign Language

Eric Clapton's song 'Sign Language' delves into the complexities of communication and the emotional disconnect that can arise in relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a moment in a small café, where the protagonist is engaged in a silent conversation through sign language. This metaphorical use of 'sign language' suggests a deeper, unspoken understanding or perhaps a lack of verbal communication that leaves the protagonist feeling isolated and misunderstood. The setting of a café at a quarter to three adds a sense of everyday mundanity, contrasting with the emotional weight of the interaction.

The repeated lines, 'But I can't respond to your sign language. You're taking advantage, bringing me down. Can't you make any sound?' highlight the protagonist's frustration and helplessness. This suggests a one-sided relationship where the other person holds the power, leaving the protagonist feeling voiceless and taken for granted. The use of 'sign language' here can be seen as a metaphor for the unspoken expectations and emotional manipulation that often go unnoticed but deeply affect the dynamics of a relationship.

The mention of Link Wray playing on a jukebox and the protagonist paying for the words he was saying adds another layer to the narrative. Link Wray, known for his instrumental rock music, symbolizes the background noise of life, while the protagonist's words go misunderstood and unappreciated. This juxtaposition emphasizes the theme of miscommunication and the struggle to be heard and understood. The line 'surrounded by fakery' further underscores the protagonist's sense of disillusionment and the superficiality of the interactions around him. Through 'Sign Language,' Clapton captures the poignant reality of feeling disconnected in a world full of noise and superficial connections.