Blue By You

Turnstile's 'Blue By You' is a succinct yet emotionally charged song that delves into the feelings of loneliness and the impact of a significant other's presence—or lack thereof—on one's emotional state. The lyrics are repetitive, but this repetition serves to emphasize the depth of the protagonist's feelings. The phrase 'I feel your energy and fall apart' suggests a deep connection with someone whose mere presence or energy can cause the protagonist to lose composure. This connection is so intense that it physically and emotionally splits the person in two, indicating a struggle between what the head thinks and what the heart feels.

The line 'You don't have to leave to make me feel alone' reveals the crux of the song's message. It speaks to the idea that emotional distance or a lack of emotional availability can be as powerful as physical absence. The protagonist feels 'blue,' a term often associated with sadness or melancholy, due to the other person's emotional withdrawal. The color blue is also a play on words with the phrase 'by you,' creating a clever twist on feeling down because of someone's actions or inactions.

Turnstile is known for their hardcore punk roots, and while 'Blue By You' may not be as aggressive as some of their other work, it retains the emotional intensity that the genre often conveys. The song's brevity and directness mirror the straightforwardness of punk music, while the lyrics allow listeners to project their own experiences of emotional turmoil and loneliness onto the song, making it a relatable piece despite its simplicity.