"Delilah Blue" is a song by Joshua Kadison that tells the story of two friends, Delilah Blue and Black-Eyed Susan, as they navigate through their lives filled with hardships and dreams. The song explores themes of self-reflection, friendship, and resilience. The lyrics set the scene with Delilah Blue looking at his tired appearance in a mirror, hinting at his dissatisfaction with himself. He confides in his friend, Black-Eyed Susan, about wanting to escape their current reality and go out West. Delilah sees life as a test and believes they can fake their way through it. The story then shifts to the Stardest Motel, where the night manager confronts Delilah and Susan about unpaid bills. Delilah brushes off the manager's demands, believing they will eventually pay somehow. The lyrics reflect their carefree and rebellious attitude towards life. The song touches on the idea of lost youth and faded dreams. It refers to memories of a bygone era as they reminisce about their past. Delilah mentions a desire to dress up as Shirley Temple and sing "Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?" in front of the White House, expressing a longing for the glamor and success of the past. Despite the challenges they face and the changes that time has brought, Delilah and Susan remain hopeful. They remember their past successes and the recognition they once received as performers. They believe they have the strength to overcome any obstacles and continue to pursue their dreams. In the end, Delilah imparts a valuable lesson to Susan about resilience and acceptance. He reveals a secret that has kept him going all these years, acknowledging the pain they face while urging Susan not to let it affect her. Delilah's reflection in the mirror symbolizes his acceptance of himself and his circumstances. Overall, "Delilah Blue" tells a story of two friends who rely on each other to navigate the challenges of their lives. It explores themes of self-discovery, the passage of time, and the strength found in friendship and resilience.
