Blue
System Of A Down
The Melancholic Longing in System Of A Down's 'Blue'
System Of A Down's song 'Blue' delves into the depths of unfulfilled longing and emotional turmoil. The repeated phrase 'I'm wishin' and wishin' away at you, girl' underscores a sense of desperation and yearning. The protagonist is caught in a cycle of wishing for a relationship that seems unattainable, leading to a state of pain and misery. This longing is not just a fleeting emotion but a deep-seated desire that permeates his existence, as indicated by the metaphor 'you flow through my pores like artery,' suggesting that the object of his affection is as vital to him as blood is to the body.
The recurring question 'Why can't it all be true?' highlights the protagonist's struggle with reality versus his dreams. He is trapped in a 'blue fallen revery,' a state of melancholic daydreaming where his desires remain unfulfilled. The color blue often symbolizes sadness and melancholy, reinforcing the emotional weight of the song. The protagonist's repeated attempts to escape this painful reality through his wishes only lead him back to the same unanswered questions and unfulfilled desires.
The song also touches on themes of existential questioning and divine intervention, as seen in the line 'At you, God, at you, girl.' This suggests that the protagonist's longing is so profound that it transcends earthly desires and reaches into the spiritual realm. He is not just questioning his relationship but also the larger forces at play in his life. This adds a layer of complexity to the song, making it not just about unrequited love but also about the search for meaning and understanding in a world filled with pain and longing.