The song "Darlin'" by Houndmouth is about a relationship that has turned sour. The lyrics suggest that the singer has been mistreated by their partner and has reached a point where they have nothing left to offer. They mention not having a kiss or any news left to give because of their partner's actions. The lyrics also paint a picture of loneliness and despair, with references to darkness, coldness, and being deep and wet. The singer tells their partner that they won't survive if they don't let someone into their life, indicating that their relationship has been isolating and damaging. The chorus of the song repeats the word "darlin'" multiple times, expressing a plea to the partner and potentially highlighting the distance and lack of affection between them. The line "The colder the heart, the warmer the gun" suggests that the more emotionally closed off and indifferent someone becomes, the more likely they are to use destructive means to cope. In the second half of the song, the lyrics introduce the character of Shotgun Alynda, who appears to be someone in a similarly vulnerable and struggling state. The singer asks Shotgun Alynda to bring them her eyes to see like her, possibly implying a desire to understand or share in her perspective. The song overall has a melancholic and introspective tone, delving into themes of broken relationships, emotional distancing, and the consequences of withholding love and affection.
