"Abandoned Love" is not a song by The Everly Brothers, but a song by Bob Dylan. Nevertheless, I can still provide an explanation of its meaning and story. "Abandoned Love" is a heartfelt and introspective song that delves into themes of love, deception, and personal struggle. The lyrics depict a narrator who has been deceived by their own inner clown, a representative of their own self-deception and fears. The narrator reflects on their past relationship, realizing that they had been in the wrong and had worn a metaphorical ball and chain. The song also touches upon the idea of seeking support from a higher power or a patron saint, but finding them absent in times of need. This absence further contributes to the narrator's feeling of being alone and trapped. The lyrics continue to explore themes of disguise and hiding emotions, suggesting that people often conceal their true selves behind a facade. However, the narrator acknowledges their inability to hide their true nature and expresses a desire to follow the innocence and purity of children. The refrain, "I march in the parade of liberty, but as long as I love you I'm not free," implies that the narrator feels bound by their love for someone, hindering their personal freedom and happiness. The song also tackles the concept of searching for a treasure that can never be found by those who are misguided or disconnected from spirituality. The reference to dead gods and queens in the church suggests a disillusionment with conventional belief systems. Throughout the song, the narrator recounts moments of intimacy, longing, and confusion in their relationship, symbolized by pleading for smiles, asking to be crossed off someone's list, and seeing the other person in a vulnerable state. These moments are juxtaposed with the narrator's realization that it is time to move on and make a change, despite their enduring love for the other person. The song concludes with a yearning for one last encounter, a desperate plea to feel the other person's love one more time before the narrator disappears from their life permanently. Overall, "Abandoned Love" is a reflective exploration of love, regret, and the struggle to reconcile personal freedom with emotional attachments.
