If I Were Blue

Patricia Barber's song "If I Were Blue" is a poetic exploration of color, emotion, and art. The lyrics draw vivid imagery from the works of famous artists like David Hockney, Edward Hopper, and Pablo Picasso, using their distinct styles to convey different emotional states. The song begins with a reference to Hockney's pool, symbolizing a serene and inviting space under a California sky. This imagery suggests a sense of immersion and intimacy, as the singer invites the listener to dive into their world.

The second verse shifts to Edward Hopper's afternoon, evoking a sense of quiet and introspection. Hopper's work often captures moments of solitude and stillness, and Barber uses this to convey a gentle, almost nostalgic feeling. The lyrics describe a summer breeze and a soft, gentle season, painting a picture of peacefulness and calm. However, this tranquility is contrasted with the darker tones of the following lines, where the singer acknowledges that their current state is more akin to black, dark as indigo, and smothering light.

The song then delves into a more intense emotional landscape, invoking the imagery of Goya's studio at night. This reference to the Spanish painter known for his dark and haunting works suggests a palpable, sensual pain and a sense of absence that is dull and silent. The final verse returns to the theme of blue, this time referencing Picasso's Blue Period, known for its melancholic and somber tones. Barber offers a sense of solace and peace in this melancholy, suggesting that beauty can be found in sorrow. The recurring motif of blue throughout the song serves as a metaphor for the complex and multifaceted nature of human emotions, blending art and feeling into a rich tapestry of lyrical expression.