Between The Lines

Janis Ian's 'Between The Lines' delves into the subtleties and unspoken aspects of relationships, capturing the essence of what lies beneath the surface. The song reflects on the moments that are often overlooked or left unsaid, highlighting the gaps between our actions and our true feelings. Ian's lyrics suggest that much of what we experience in relationships is not explicitly communicated but rather inferred from the spaces 'between the lines.' This metaphorical approach emphasizes the complexity and depth of human connections, where the most significant emotions and thoughts are often hidden beneath the surface.

The song also touches on themes of nostalgia and the passage of time. Ian reflects on past experiences, both joyful and painful, and how they shape our present. The references to 'holidays and yesterdays' and 'broken dreams that somehow slipped away' evoke a sense of longing and reflection. The lyrics suggest that while we may try to capture and hold onto these moments through photographs and memories, they often fail to convey the full depth of our experiences. This idea is further reinforced by the line 'Between the lines of photographs I've seen the past -- it isn't pleasing,' indicating that the reality of our memories is often more complex and less idealized than we might wish.

Ian's song also explores the idea of living beyond our means and the pursuit of dreams that may not be our own. The line 'We live beyond our means on other people's dreams and that's succeeding' critiques societal pressures and the often hollow nature of success. This theme is intertwined with the personal reflections in the song, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from understanding and embracing our own desires and experiences, rather than conforming to external expectations. The recurring motif of 'striking another match' and 'dancing until the evening's dead' symbolizes a desire to make the most of the present moment, despite the uncertainties and unspoken tensions that may exist.