Unluck
James Blake Lyrics
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Care for me
When crossings call out
One of three
Treated walls
Care for me
When crossings call out
One of three
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Treated walls
Care for me
When crossings call out
One of three
Treated walls
Care for me
When crossings call out
One of three
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
Only child take good care
I wouldn't like you
Playing, falling there
The lyrics to James Blake's song Unluck depict a sense of isolation and fear of self-destruction. The "treated walls" represent the barriers one puts up to protect themselves from the harsh realities of the world. The repetition of the phrase "care for me" emphasizes the need for self-preservation. The line "when crossings call out, one of three" could signify the choices we make in life when presented with options, and the fear of making the wrong choice.
Furthermore, the repeated use of the phrase "only child take good care, I wouldn't like you playing, falling there" reinforces the theme of self-protection. The "only child" could be seen as a metaphor for vulnerability, and the need for self-care to avoid falling into harm's way. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of paranoia and anxiety in navigating life's challenges.
Line by Line Meaning
Treated walls
The walls are familiar and comforting
Care for me
They provide a sense of security and protection
When crossings call out
But when I am faced with tough decisions or situations
One of three
I am overwhelmed and have three options, but must choose just one
Only child take good care
Speaking to his own inner child, reminding himself to be gentle with himself
I wouldn't like you
He wouldn't want his own inner child to suffer or go through hardships
Playing, falling there
Referring to taking risks and potentially failing or getting hurt
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: James Blake Litherland
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Scott Orbell
I didn't know what to think of this song at first, but after a few listens I can't get it out of my head. Genius or not, you can't argue that James Blake is one of the few 'experimental' musicians that has actually made it to mainstream success, and my hat goes off to him for that.
tentative stagename
this is def experimental. there's a lot more. the rabbit hole is way deeper. have the good guide and ride the ride.
polytype.
he is a fucking genius
BeeskiBee
Thank you for that, he really is a very genius musician. Pushing the limits is something music lovers need to try and appreciate.
Bobson Dugnutt
Most of the best music is "experimental" whatever that means, and never reaches mainstream success to be fair
Isiah Hilton
I love just about every type of music. Anywhere from [certain] mainstream pop music all the way to pure harsh noise "music". But I have always had a special appreciation for anything seemingly experimental or avant-garde that becomes successful and is appreciated by the masses. It may sound cheesy or stupid, but it gives me faith in humanity. It shows that originality is in fact still there and that there are always people that will love it.
cjunluck
Met him back in Leeds last year after one of his shows to find out the meaning to these lyrics and get a signature. 'Only child Take good care I wouldn't like you playing falling there' (As an only child he was restricted from doing as many things through parents fear of losing their only son) 'Treated walls care for me' (his studio) 'When crossings call out one of three' (The area he produced in - Newcross) If anyone cares.. Also the live version of this is mind blowing
NasbotX
rare insight, thank you
Kathy Hollenbach
@cjunluck, thank you so much for explanation.
Jay
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