Laughing Out Loud

The Wallflowers' song 'Laughing Out Loud' delves into the complexities of human relationships and the often bewildering journey of life. The lyrics paint a picture of someone grappling with confusion and frustration, yet finding a way to laugh through the chaos. The opening lines suggest a sense of unfinished business and conflict, with the protagonist feeling trapped and covered in metaphorical 'hives' from the stress. This sets the stage for a narrative about dealing with life's unpredictable nature and the struggle to find clarity amidst indecision.

The recurring imagery of climbing a tree to reach the best peach symbolizes striving for the best in life, despite the obstacles. The tightrope walk with vaseline-covered feet and looking into blindfolds are metaphors for the precarious and uncertain situations the protagonist finds themselves in. These vivid images highlight the difficulty of navigating through life's challenges while feeling manipulated or controlled by external forces. The refrain 'Laughing out loud' serves as a coping mechanism, a way to deal with the absurdity and confusion by finding humor in it.

The song also touches on themes of confinement and the desire for freedom. The lines about doing time inside a grapevine and living on minimal sustenance reflect a sense of being trapped in a limiting situation. However, the protagonist expresses a determination to break free, as seen in the line about losing chains and slipping out of jail. Ultimately, 'Laughing Out Loud' is about resilience and finding a way to maintain a sense of humor and perspective, even when life doesn't make sense. The Wallflowers use rich metaphors and relatable scenarios to convey a message of perseverance and the importance of laughter in the face of adversity.