In Blue

Declan McKenna's song 'In Blue' is a poignant exploration of emotional turbulence and the complexities of relationships. The recurring motif of 'blue' serves as a metaphor for sadness, melancholy, and introspection. The song begins with the narrator reflecting on a 'wrong turn' and the subsequent emotional fallout, symbolized by the rain that keeps him inside. The imagery of building a house from 'sticks and twine' suggests fragility and impermanence, highlighting the vulnerability of the narrator's emotional state. The rain soaking through this makeshift house further emphasizes the inevitability of facing one's emotions, no matter how much one tries to shield themselves.

The lyrics also delve into the dynamics of a relationship where both parties seem to mirror each other's emotions. When 'she lies,' the narrator feels implicated in the deceit, and when 'she smiles,' he finds happiness too. This mirroring effect underscores the deep emotional connection and interdependence between the two individuals. The line 'I caught the mirror head on as I grew' suggests a moment of self-realization and the painful process of growing up and facing one's true self.

The song's bridge introduces a sense of disillusionment and questioning. The narrator wonders if the emotional turmoil was intentional, asking, 'Was it all on purpose? Was this true?' This introspection is coupled with mundane tasks like washing dishes, which are described as 'all for show and no purpose,' symbolizing the futility and routine of daily life amidst emotional chaos. The closing lines, 'When you're out of luck, I will be too,' reinforce the theme of shared fate and emotional synchronicity, encapsulating the essence of being 'in blue' together.