What Goes With Blue
Tammy Wynette
Navigating Emotional Turbulence in 'What Goes With Blue'
Tammy Wynette's song 'What Goes With Blue' delves into the complexities of emotional turmoil and the struggle to maintain stability amidst chaos. The lyrics repeatedly question, 'What goes on here in your mind,' suggesting a deep introspection or confusion about one's mental state. This line, coupled with the imagery of falling down and feeling upside down, paints a vivid picture of someone grappling with their emotions and trying to make sense of their inner world.
The recurring plea for the 'Lady' to 'be good and do what you should' can be interpreted as a call for self-discipline and adherence to societal or personal expectations. This refrain implies that despite the emotional upheaval, there is a belief that following a certain path or set of behaviors will eventually lead to things being 'alright.' This reflects a common theme in Wynette's music, where she often explores the tension between personal desires and societal norms, especially in the context of relationships and self-identity.
The song's structure, with its oscillation between 'going up and going down' and the metaphor of a cut string, further emphasizes the instability and unpredictability of emotions. The bells in the sky with a cut string symbolize a loss of control or direction, reinforcing the theme of disorientation. Through these metaphors, Wynette captures the essence of navigating through emotional highs and lows, and the constant effort to find balance and clarity. Her soulful delivery and poignant lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the rollercoaster of emotions, making 'What Goes With Blue' a timeless reflection on the human condition.