Story Of The Blues

Gary Moore's 'Story Of The Blues' is a poignant exploration of heartache and loss, encapsulated through the lens of the blues genre. The song begins with the narrator lamenting the departure of his beloved, describing her as a 'sweet little angel' who has 'spread her wings and flown.' This metaphor of flight suggests a sense of finality and freedom for the woman, contrasting sharply with the narrator's ensuing despair. The blues, a genre historically rooted in expressing sorrow and hardship, becomes the narrator's chosen medium to cope with his pain.

The lyrics delve deeper into the emotional turmoil experienced by the narrator. He speaks of 'bad luck and trouble' as his only companions, highlighting the pervasive sense of loneliness and misfortune that follows the end of his relationship. The repeated phrase 'I will play the blues' signifies his commitment to channeling his sorrow into music, a common theme in blues culture where personal suffering is transformed into artistic expression. The song also touches on the universal nature of the blues, describing it as 'the pain you can't live with' and 'the woman you can't live without,' emphasizing the deep emotional impact of lost love.

Moore's reference to Chicago, a city synonymous with the blues, adds a layer of authenticity and homage to the genre's roots. The 'story of the blues' in the headlines symbolizes the widespread and timeless nature of heartache, suggesting that such stories are a common thread in human experience. The song concludes with a sense of unresolved sorrow, as the narrator questions when he will 'laugh again,' indicating that his journey through grief is ongoing. Through 'Story Of The Blues,' Gary Moore masterfully captures the essence of the blues, using his personal narrative to connect with a broader audience who have experienced similar pain.