Looks Red, Tastes Blue

Mayday Parade's song "Looks Red, Tastes Blue" delves into the emotional turmoil of separation and the fear of losing someone dear. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the longest day they've ever had, feeling far away yet emotionally close to someone they care about. The opening lines suggest that distance, while it might make one stronger, is also a source of immense pain and anxiety. The protagonist's mind is filled with negative thoughts, and there's a desperate hope that this painful period won't last forever, emphasizing the belief that they are meant to be together with their loved one.

The chorus reveals the depth of the protagonist's suffering, with the line "I won't lie, this hurts more than you'll ever know" highlighting the intensity of their emotional pain. The idea of pinching oneself to wake up from a nightmare suggests a desire to escape the harsh reality, but the tears and fears indicate that the situation is worse than imagined. The lyrics also touch on the frustration of reliving painful moments and the urgency of expressing true feelings before it's too late, as nothing lasts forever.

The recurring imagery of blood turning from red to blue symbolizes the protagonist's emotional and physical distress, as they feel they can't breathe without their loved one. The song's conclusion, with the repeated lines about holding onto memories and the fading nature of pictures, underscores the fear of losing the connection and the struggle to keep the memory of the loved one alive. The song captures the essence of longing, heartache, and the fear of losing someone irreplaceable, making it a poignant reflection on the complexities of love and separation.