Black Dog

Arlo Parks' song 'Black Dog' delves deep into the harrowing experience of supporting a loved one through mental health struggles. The title itself is a reference to a metaphor popularized by Winston Churchill, who used 'black dog' to describe his own battles with depression. This sets the tone for the song, which is a poignant exploration of the emotional toll that mental illness can take on both the sufferer and those who care for them.

The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and heartfelt expressions of concern. Lines like 'I’d lick the grief right off your lips' and 'You do your eyes like Robert Smith' paint a picture of someone deeply empathetic and willing to go to great lengths to alleviate their friend's pain. The mention of Robert Smith, the lead singer of The Cure known for his distinctive makeup, adds a layer of cultural reference that underscores the depth of the friend's emotional state. The repeated refrain of 'I would do anything to get you out your room' highlights the desperation and helplessness felt by the narrator as they try to coax their friend out of their depressive state.

The song also touches on the cruel and inexplicable nature of mental illness with the line 'It's so cruel what your mind can do for no reason.' This encapsulates the frustration and bewilderment that often accompanies mental health issues, both for those experiencing them and their loved ones. The simple acts of going to the corner store or taking medicine become monumental tasks, symbolizing the small but significant steps in the journey towards recovery. Arlo Parks' gentle yet powerful delivery of these lyrics makes 'Black Dog' a deeply moving and relatable anthem for anyone who has faced the challenges of mental health.