The song "Blue Lips" by Joseph Arthur has dark and haunting lyrics that explore themes of despair, loss, and self-destruction. The storyline of the song revolves around a character who is experiencing intense emotional turmoil and confusion. In the first verse, the character is in a state of despair, praying to God from a metaphorical hell. They feel trapped and tormented, represented by the image of dancing naked in the streets. The mention of digging out their own eyes and throwing them past prison gates suggests a desperate attempt to escape their own reality. The second verse reveals that the character's actions were driven by a sudden change in a significant relationship. The lyric "Since your red lips turned blue" suggests that someone the character was close to has died or is no longer present. This loss has caused the character to do whatever it takes to try and make sense of their pain and find a way to move forward. The chorus expresses the character's ongoing confusion about their actions and the attempt to cope with the loss. They are haunted by the memory and influence of the person they lost, singing the same song and wearing a metaphorical noose, symbolizing the burden of grief. The bridge of the song introduces the concept of the devil being the lord of a confusing world. It reflects a belief that in a world where wrong dreams come true, the character has never felt deserving of love and has been surrounded by darkness. They feel disconnected and lost, emphasizing the overwhelming emotional turmoil they are experiencing. Overall, "Blue Lips" is a deeply introspective song that explores the complexities of grief, loss, and mental anguish. It portrays a character who is struggling to find meaning and understanding in the wake of a profound loss, ultimately leaving them feeling isolated and disconnected from the world around them.
