Bones
Elizabeth Cook Lyrics


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Ah, ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah, ah

I wear your bones around my neck
I am the keeper of the flame
As it's true, I've been a wreck
But I love you just the same
Tonight, I'll play another show
I'll feel high then I'll feel low
Then I'll do a double-check
I wear your bones around my neck

Ah, ah, ah, ah

Diggy liggy la and diggy liggy lo
Wonder if they're still a go
If they take the time to dance
A flash in the underpants
Can't hear the wind til it moves trees, ugh
Here are our nominees
With their heart attack in tow
Diggy liggy la, diggy liggy lo

Ah, ah, ah, ah

Let's take time to recognize
All the very best goodbyes
How they paved a solemn path
In their brutal aftermath
Listen for the rattlesnake
Hear that weeping willow ache
There's no slowing down the skies
Let's take time to recognize

Ah, ah, ah, ah

I wear your bones around my neck
I am the keeper of the flame
As it's true I've been a wreck
But I love you just the same
Tonight, I'll play another show
I'll talk on the radio
Then I'll do a double-check
I wear your bones around my neck





Ah, ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah, ah

Overall Meaning

In "Bones" by Elizabeth Cook, the lyrics convey a sense of devotion and emotional burden towards a loved one. The repeated lines "I wear your bones around my neck" symbolize a deep connection and commitment to the person being referred to. It metaphorically suggests that the weight of their presence and influence is carried with them at all times.


The singer describes themselves as the "keeper of the flame," implying that they are responsible for preserving the passion and intensity in their relationship. Despite admitting to being a "wreck," they still love their partner unconditionally. This illustrates the enduring nature of their affection and their willingness to embrace the ups and downs that come with it.


The mention of playing another show and feeling both high and low indicates the volatile nature of the singer's emotions. This suggests a connection between their personal life and their public persona, with the stage becoming a cathartic outlet for their feelings. The line "Then I'll do a double-check" implies a need for reassurance and validation, possibly seeking confirmation of their partner's love.


In the next section, the lyrics take on a more abstract and poetic tone. The lines "Diggy liggy la and diggy liggy lo" seem like nonsensical phrases but contribute to the overall theme of uncertainty and questioning. The reference to dancing and flashing underpants suggests a reminder of frivolity and spontaneity even in the midst of serious matters.


The subsequent lines urge the listeners to recognize the significance of goodbyes and acknowledge the impact they have on our lives. This presents a contemplative and reflective viewpoint, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and honoring personal growth and the aftermath of difficult experiences. The imagery of the rattlesnake and weeping willow denotes pain and sadness, capturing the emotional depth of these moments.


In the final chorus, the lyrics revisit the earlier themes of devotion and emotional struggle. The singer reiterates their commitment to carrying their loved one's influence with them, embracing the responsibility of being the "keeper of the flame." Again, the mention of playing another show and talking on the radio suggests a connection between their personal and public life, highlighting the intertwined nature of their experiences.


Overall, "Bones" portrays a complex and profound relationship, with the singer expressing both the challenges and unwavering love they experience. The lyrics delve into the emotions and responsibilities that come with carrying the weight of someone's impact, while also contemplating the significance of goodbyes and personal growth. Despite the ups and downs, the song conveys a sense of dedication and devotion to the person being addressed.


Line by Line Meaning

I wear your bones around my neck
I carry the weight and burden of our past relationship with me at all times


I am the keeper of the flame
I am responsible for holding onto the passion and love we once shared


As it's true, I've been a wreck
Admittedly, I have been emotionally distraught and unstable


But I love you just the same
Despite the challenges and difficulties, my love for you remains unchanged


Tonight, I'll play another show
I will perform on stage yet again


I'll feel high then I'll feel low
My emotions will fluctuate between extreme elation and deep sadness


Then I'll do a double-check
I will take extra precautions and measures


Diggy liggy la and diggy liggy lo
Engaging in carefree and lighthearted activities


Wonder if they're still a go
Questioning if those activities are still enjoyable and viable options


If they take the time to dance
Determining if people are willing to let loose and enjoy themselves


A flash in the underpants
A momentary burst of excitement or thrill


Can't hear the wind til it moves trees, ugh
Sometimes we fail to notice subtle signs and changes until they have significant impact


Here are our nominees
Here are the contenders or choices we have


With their heart attack in tow
With their emotional baggage or unresolved issues accompanying them


Let's take time to recognize
We should acknowledge and appreciate


All the very best goodbyes
The most heartfelt and meaningful farewells


How they paved a solemn path
How those goodbyes have left a lasting and serious impact


In their brutal aftermath
In the harsh and challenging consequences that follow


Listen for the rattlesnake
Pay attention for warning signs or dangerous situations


Hear that weeping willow ache
Observe the deep emotional pain and sadness


There's no slowing down the skies
We cannot stop or control the passage of time


Let's take time to recognize
Again, we should acknowledge and appreciate


I'll talk on the radio
I will be heard and express myself through broadcasting


Then I'll do a double-check
I will verify and confirm things once more


I wear your bones around my neck
Once more, I carry the weight and burden of our past relationship with me




Lyrics ยฉ Wixen Music Publishing
Written by: Elizabeth Yvonne Cook

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Boo Ray

Omg itโ€™s amazing EC!!! Youโ€™re blazing a trail. Great song and sounds incredible!

Kate X

LOVE this Elizabeth! Great song, video, location, costumes etc....

Steve Miller

Elizabeth Cook can stand alone; her efforts are treasure. I'd pay big bucks for a Elizabeth Cook / Sturgill Simpson concert. The artistic and musical conceptualization blend of the two would surpass anything that the so-called music industry forces down our throats. Please make it happen.

Barry Titone

Maybe with Blackberry Smoke too!

Steve Miller

@Elizabeth Cook๐ŸŽถ It certainly would be an honor ma'am. Keep making this world better with your music. V/r, Steve Miller

Diane Thornhill

COVID destroyed my plans to see Sturgill and Tyler Childers this year.

Diane Thornhill

I agree Steve Miller.

wes adkins

God i love this lady. Such a badass lady with a voice from heaven. She is up there with Tom Petty cool.

wes adkins

@Mumford Man many times she is that cool

Mumford Man

@wes adkins have u?

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