"Footprints" by Tom Gregory is a song that explores the idea of being unable to let go of past experiences and the impact they have on the present. The song talks about the lingering presence of someone who has hurt the protagonist, describing them as an old ghost that won't let go. The lyrics suggest that this person is deeply ingrained in the protagonist's life, as they are in their blood and heart. Despite the pain and toxicity they bring, the protagonist admits to sometimes forgetting the harm caused, portraying a conflicting dynamic where the person acts as both poison and remedy. The chorus emphasizes the difficulty the protagonist faces in moving on, stating that no matter what they say or do, they cannot escape from the presence of this person. The repetition of "You got your footprints on me" signifies the lasting impact they have left, from head to toe and marks on the chest, leaving a glimmer of hope amidst the pain. Overall, "Footprints" captures the struggle of letting go and moving forward from a toxic relationship. The lyrics highlight the emotional and physical hold the person maintains, weaving a narrative of conflict, pain, and the lingering effects they have on the protagonist's life until their "blood runs cold".
