"My Blood" by Ellie Goulding is a powerful and emotional song about the pain and aftermath of a broken relationship. The lyrics depict the narrator still feeling a lingering sense of emptiness and longing despite trying to move on. The song opens with the narrator expressing the feeling that they can't escape, which has now vanished. They metaphorically state that they went to great lengths to prove this feeling's impact, possibly suggesting they tried everything to hold onto the love they once had. However, they find themselves entangled in their own thoughts, feeling trapped and overwhelmed. The line "The color of my blood is all I see on the rocks" paints a vivid image of the narrator's internal struggle. They see their pain and suffering represented by the metaphorical blood on the rocks, emphasizing the intensity of their emotional turmoil. The next verse reveals that the person they loved has left, sailing away from them. The following lines describe the eternal alarm bells, symbolizing the constant reminder of their pain, and the waves breaking their chains, representing the release from the past. The chorus reflects the conflicting feelings of the narrator. They acknowledge that they are not dying, but they find solace in simply breathing. Breathing becomes a way of healing and moving forward. However, the loss they experienced with their loved one is compared to the blood they shed, drowning the love they believed in. The bridge delves deeper into the emotional devastation caused by the failed relationship. The narrator refers to lost dreams buried in their dreams for their partner. They describe the past love as an ecstatic feeling that has now faded away. They compare themselves to being in the firing line of empty bullets, suggesting that they have been hurt and let down. The song concludes with a repetition of the chorus. The lyrics reinforce the idea that despite not being physically harmed, the pain caused by the broken relationship is still present. Breathing becomes a way of healing and moving on, even though the love they once knew has been overshadowed by the bloodshed. Overall, "My Blood" explores the aftermath of a failed relationship, acknowledging the pain, longing, and struggle to move on. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics, Ellie Goulding creates a poignant and relatable narrative of emotional healing.
