The song "Bad Day Lately" by Jeff Tweedy expresses feelings of loneliness, longing, and despair. The lyrics convey the narrator's struggles with being far away from someone they deeply care about, and how this distance intensifies their negative emotions. The song suggests that the narrator's day has been difficult and filled with darkness due to this separation. The phrase "swallowed in the murk" portrays a sense of being consumed by sadness or despair. The distance between the narrator and their loved one is depicted as a barrier that worsens their overall situation. The chorus emphasizes the impact of this distance, as the narrator states that everything they do, say, and feel is connected to the person they miss. This highlights the powerful influence this person has on their emotions and overall well-being. The lyrics also imply a sense of hope and comfort in the idea of returning home one day. Despite the hardships and challenges faced, there is optimism that being reunited with their loved one will ease their pain and bring solace. Overall, "Bad Day Lately" invites listeners to empathize with the narrator's emotional struggle and highlights the importance of human connection and companionship in finding solace and happiness.