Big Black Car

Gregory Alan Isakov's 'Big Black Car' is a poignant song that delves into the themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a picture of someone reflecting on a past relationship, using vivid imagery and metaphors to convey a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The opening lines introduce us to a scene where the narrator, as a child, listens intently to a phonograph, symbolizing the way we hold onto memories of significant moments and people in our lives.

As the song progresses, the metaphor of a 'big black car' is introduced, representing heartbreak and the inevitable journey of life that carries us away from our past. The imagery of rain, corn crows, and a carnival evoke a feeling of transience, suggesting that love and happiness are fleeting experiences that come and go like the changing weather or the temporary thrills of a carnival ride. The contrast between the narrator as a 'plain jane' and the other as a 'miracle' or 'magazine' highlights the feelings of inadequacy and longing for a time that has passed.

Isakov's folk style, with its gentle melodies and introspective lyrics, complements the song's reflective nature. 'Big Black Car' invites listeners to ponder their own past relationships and the bittersweet nature of memories. It's a reminder that while the past may be 'haunted' and the future 'laced' with uncertainty, the experiences we have and the love we've known are integral parts of who we are.