Sister

The Black Keys' song 'Sister' delves into the emotional turmoil and betrayal experienced by a woman, referred to as 'sister.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of heartbreak and the aftermath of a relationship gone awry. The opening lines, 'Wake up / You're gonna wake up to nothing,' set a somber tone, suggesting a sense of emptiness and loss. The repeated references to breaking up and the hollow heart indicate a deep emotional wound that the protagonist is grappling with.

The chorus, 'Sister, sister, what did they do to you?' is a poignant cry of empathy and concern. It implies that the 'sister' has been wronged or hurt by someone, possibly in a romantic relationship. The lines 'Did they take and tried to break / A heart that long / It's so wrong' further emphasize the injustice and pain inflicted upon her. The use of the word 'sister' could be literal, referring to a sibling, or metaphorical, representing a close female friend or even women in general who have faced similar struggles.

The song also touches on themes of manipulation and exploitation, as seen in the lines 'They took advantage of / The one who showed you love.' This suggests that the 'sister' was vulnerable and her kindness was taken for granted. The repeated refrain of 'So long' at the end of the song signifies a farewell, possibly indicating the protagonist's decision to move on from the toxic situation. Overall, 'Sister' is a powerful exploration of emotional pain, betrayal, and the struggle to reclaim one's sense of self after being wronged.