"Empty Boxes" is a song by The Everly Brothers, released in 1973. The lyrics depict a person who feels poor and empty in terms of material possessions and relationship experiences. They describe themselves as having nothing but empty boxes, signifying a lack of meaningful connections and a sense of emptiness in their life. The song mentions Diana, who is portrayed as a young girl dressed in ribbons. The narrator talks about how they are attracted to girls like her, implying a pattern of pursuing superficial relationships or indulging in temporary flirtations. Despite this, their longing for connection and understanding remains unfulfilled. The line "Yet you wait with morning in your hair" suggests that Diana possesses a sense of hope or optimism, symbolized by morning, while the narrator lacks any motivation or purpose. The plea for Diana's help in the song indicates a desperation for assistance in finding meaning and explaining their current state of emptiness. The comparison of the narrator to a match that slowly burns suggests a sense of self-destruction or gradual fading away. The reference to being a leaf that has been turned implies a feeling of being tossed around or controlled by external circumstances, further highlighting the narrator's powerlessness and lack of direction. Overall, "Empty Boxes" conveys a sense of longing, emptiness, and a longing for something more substantial in life. It explores themes of material poverty, emotional emptiness, and a search for purpose and understanding.
