"Empty Beer Cans" by Jon Pardi tells the story of a relationship that has reached its breaking point. The narrator realizes that it's time to call it quits, as they no longer have any effect on their partner and she has packed up and left. The lyrics express a sense of finality and determination to move on. The song explores the narrator's emotions as they go through the process of ending the relationship. They plan to change the locks, get rid of old memories by burning pictures, and have a bonfire to symbolically let go of the past. The burning represents a release and a way for the protagonist to start anew. The chorus reflects the sense of emptiness and despair that the narrator feels, comparing their emotional state to the emptiness of beer cans. The repetition of the phrase "That's just what you do when you're at the bottom" implies that this is not the first time the narrator has experienced heartbreak, but they are determined to persevere. Despite the pain and confusion, the narrator acknowledges that they must have been out of their mind to have taken their partner back multiple times. The realization that the relationship has come to an end becomes clearer, even though it may be a bit blurry due to the emotions involved. However, the song ends on a slightly optimistic note. The narrator considers the future and declares that they will put in the work, tough it out, and be alright. They believe that they hold the power to overcome the heartbreak, and the answer to their problems lies within themselves, symbolized by the empty beer cans. Overall, "Empty Beer Cans" explores themes of heartbreak, self-reflection, and the determination to move forward from a failed relationship.
