Cold Dresses

Al Corley's song 'Cold Dresses' delves into the complexities of life and love, using the metaphor of motion to explore themes of change, isolation, and justification. The repeated phrase 'motion motion' underscores the idea that life is constantly moving and evolving, contrasting with moments of stagnation or emotional paralysis. This duality is further emphasized by the lines 'Life is motion and not in motion,' suggesting that while life is inherently dynamic, there are times when it feels static and unchanging.

The lyrics also touch on the end of a relationship, marked by the poignant farewell 'Say so long my lover, say so long my friend.' This goodbye is not just to a person but to a phase of life, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of moving on. The 'cold dresses' mentioned in the song symbolize the emotional distance and the remnants of a past love that still linger. These dresses are 'cold,' indicating a lack of warmth and connection, perhaps representing memories that have lost their emotional charge over time.

The song also explores the idea of holding on too tightly to the past, as seen in the lines 'Why did it take so long for me to understand, I held on, held on too tight.' This realization leads to a sense of justification and acceptance, as the narrator wishes the best for their former lover while acknowledging their own role in the relationship's end. The recurring themes of isolation and justification suggest a journey towards self-awareness and emotional maturity, ultimately embracing the motion of life and the inevitability of change.