"Say It With Flowers" is a song by American singer-songwriter John Hiatt. The lyrics tell a story of a relationship that has gone sour. The narrator expresses frustration and weariness with their partner, who seems to misunderstand or ignore their efforts. At the beginning of the song, the narrator describes their own struggles, with dirty clothes and worn-out shoes. They imply that their partner expects them to feel sorry for her because of these circumstances. However, the narrator doesn't understand why they try their best when the rules seem to be set against them. The mention of an oral test could suggest that the partner is judging the narrator's words and actions. The narrator then describes their attempts to communicate with their partner, but they feel that the more they speak, the less genuine and truthful their words become. This could suggest a breakdown in trust or communication between the two. The chorus emphasizes the narrator's intention to express their feelings through flowers. They want to convey a message during significant moments, like the partner's wedding day and when they walk away. Flowers symbolize love, apology, and regret, but they also imply a certain sense of detachment and distance. The next verse highlights the partner's gullibility and tendency to believe everything they hear, which ends up causing tears. The mention of "cheap talking" suggests that there may be rumors or gossip circulating in their small town, and it's better for them to stay quiet about the relationship. The bridge of the song expresses the narrator's fear of losing their life without resolving the issues with their partner. It shows a desperate plea for more time to discuss and resolve their problems. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the importance of saying everything with flowers. It's all the narrator has left to say, suggesting that words are no longer effective in conveying their emotions. Overall, "Say It With Flowers" portrays a relationship on the brink of collapse, with both parties struggling to communicate effectively. The song conveys a sense of frustration, weariness, and a desire for a more genuine connection.
