Rough Hands

Alexisonfire's song 'Rough Hands' delves into the complexities of love, change, and the emotional scars that come with them. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship strained by the passage of time and the wear and tear of life's challenges. The protagonist returns home, physically and emotionally exhausted, with 'rough hands and sore eyes,' symbolizing the toll that life and love have taken on him. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative about the sacrifices and changes one makes in the name of love, even when those efforts seem futile.

The song explores the idea that love isn't always about finding someone who perfectly suits you but rather about how much you're willing to change to suit them. This sentiment is poignantly expressed in the lines, 'Sometimes love isn't about how much someone suits you, but how much you're willing to change to suit them.' The protagonist's rough hands symbolize his hard work and dedication, yet he acknowledges that these efforts may not be enough to salvage the relationship. The repeated refrain, 'Two people too damaged too much too late,' underscores the sense of inevitability and resignation that permeates the song.

Throughout the song, there's a recurring theme of regret and missed opportunities. The protagonist reflects on moments of intimacy and connection that have now turned into memories of 'empty bottles' and 'clothes on the floor.' Despite his efforts, he realizes that he may never be able to fully mend the relationship, as indicated by the lines, 'It doesn't matter how rough these hands get, it doesn't matter 'cause I'm not her man.' The song concludes with a sense of acceptance, acknowledging that some things are beyond repair, no matter how much one tries. 'Rough Hands' is a poignant exploration of the emotional labor involved in love and the harsh reality that sometimes, despite our best efforts, things fall apart.