Two Dozen Roses

Shenandoah's song "Two Dozen Roses" is a heartfelt ballad that delves into the themes of regret, longing, and the desire for redemption. The narrator reflects on a past relationship that he has lost due to his own mistakes. He brings flowers to his former lover's door, hoping to make amends, but is met with rejection. This sets the stage for his introspective questioning about what could have been done differently to save the relationship.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, particularly the recurring motif of "two dozen roses" and "an old bottle of wine." These symbols represent traditional gestures of romance and apology, suggesting that the narrator believes grand gestures might have swayed his lover's heart. The line "If I really coulda hung the Moon" further emphasizes his yearning to have been the perfect partner, someone who could have done the impossible to make his lover happy.

The song also touches on the universal human experience of hindsight and the torment of second-guessing one's actions. The narrator admits to being a fool for losing something irreplaceable and wonders if trying harder or losing sleep over his mistakes could have changed the outcome. This emotional vulnerability makes the song relatable to anyone who has ever experienced the pain of lost love and the haunting question of "what if?" Shenandoah's poignant delivery and the song's melancholic melody amplify the sense of sorrow and longing, making it a timeless piece about the complexities of love and regret.