What Can I Do

Smokie's song "What Can I Do" delves into the melancholic reflections of a person grappling with the disillusionment of their dreams and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of dreams that seem unattainable, floating away like clouds in the sky. This imagery evokes a sense of helplessness and frustration, as every effort made appears to lead in the wrong direction, much like a cold black night following a warm summer day. The recurring question, "What can I do?", underscores the feeling of being stuck in a cycle of unfulfilled aspirations and missed opportunities.

The song also touches on the theme of change and the inevitability of life's transformations. The narrator reminisces about playing the guitar with a smile, a symbol of simpler, happier times. However, everything has changed, and their life has been rearranged, leaving them to grapple with a new reality. The mention of the name "Sidle Jinks" suggests a struggle with identity and the persistence of the past, despite efforts to move forward. This name, which remains despite attempts to change it, symbolizes the inescapable nature of one's history and the difficulty of starting anew.

In the latter part of the song, the narrator hears voices singing, yet no one is there, representing the haunting memories of the past. The ghostly presence of these memories brings past experiences to the forefront, highlighting the internal conflict between the desire for freedom and the weight of past sins. The plea to be let in and start over again signifies a yearning for redemption and a fresh start, despite the overwhelming sense of being trapped by one's past. Smokie's poignant lyrics and emotive delivery capture the universal struggle of reconciling with one's past while seeking a path forward.