Forever Half Mast
Lucy Dacus Lyrics
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Everything I've done, just a little lovely crow
I didn't choose this town, I can't undo it now
I tried to love the beast no matter what it thinks of me
You're worried that you'll go to Hell
For all the lives that you can't save
For all the money that you waste
Yes, you're evil, but you're not that bad
You put out your palm more than the back of your hand
They were wrong when they said forget the past
Let your flag fly at forever half mast
Let your flag fly at forever half mast
We're in a state of disarray united by our darkest days
Aching from the growing pains, they always say it's just a phase
America, the tried and true, red and white and black and blue
Tell me, who did this to you? If it was me I hardly knew
Yes, you're evil, but you're not that bad
You put out your palm more than the back of your hand
They were wrong when they said forget the past
Let your flag fly at forever half mast
Let your flag fly at forever half mast
All for one, and one for all
Nobody escaped before
Wait for something magical
Mistake turned into miracle
"Forever Half Mast" by Lucy Dacus explores themes of self-reflection, societal responsibility, and the complexities of patriotism. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and contemplation as the singer navigates their way back home, using the back roads rather than the main route. This choice could represent seeking an alternative path or perspective, away from the mainstream, to better understand their own journey.
The mention of a "lovely crow" suggests that the singer finds beauty even in the ordinary or overlooked aspects of life. They didn't choose the town they're in, but they've embraced it and tried to love it, regardless of how it perceives them. This could symbolize personal growth and acceptance despite external influences.
The second verse delves into feelings of guilt and the fear of damnation. The singer embodies a complex morality, acknowledging their faults and imperfections but acknowledging that they are not irredeemably evil. They are more inclined to extend a helping hand than to turn their back on others, challenging the notion of absolute good and evil.
The chorus, "Let your flag fly at forever half mast," invites listeners to question the unquestioning loyalty displayed towards their country. The phrase suggests that blind patriotism may prevent critical reflection and growth as a nation. By flying the flag at half mast perpetually, one could signal a constant state of introspection and recognition of the country's flaws.
The final verse touches on the societal divisions and pain plaguing America. It questions who is to blame for the state the nation is in, even suggesting the singer's potential involvement. There is a call for unity and the hope for something transformative to emerge from the mistakes and struggles society faces.
Overall, "Forever Half Mast" is a thought-provoking song that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, societal responsibilities, and the complexities of patriotism.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm takin' back roads all the way back home
I'm choosing unconventional paths to return to where I started.
Everything I've done, just a little lovely crow
All my actions are like small, beautiful creatures.
I didn't choose this town, I can't undo it now
I didn't have a say in being here, and I can't change that.
I tried to love the beast no matter what it thinks of me
I made an effort to care for something even if it doesn't reciprocate.
You're worried that you'll go to Hell
You're concerned about facing consequences in the afterlife.
For all the lives that you can't save
Feeling guilt for being unable to rescue others.
For all the money that you waste
Regretting the squandering of your resources.
For all the good you throw away
Frustration over discarding valuable things or opportunities.
Yes, you're evil, but you're not that bad
Acknowledging flaws but recognizing they're not extreme.
You put out your palm more than the back of your hand
You offer help and support more often than you reject or harm others.
They were wrong when they said forget the past
The advice of disregarding the past was incorrect.
Let your flag fly at forever half mast
Continue to mourn and acknowledge loss, never fully hoisting your flag.
We're in a state of disarray united by our darkest days
We are in chaos, but our shared suffering brings us together.
Aching from the growing pains, they always say it's just a phase
Experiencing discomfort and struggle, while others dismiss it as temporary.
America, the tried and true, red and white and black and blue
Calling out the enduring nature of the United States, with its varied experiences.
Tell me, who did this to you? If it was me I hardly knew
Questioning who caused harm, and if the artist unknowingly contributed.
All for one, and one for all
Everyone supports each other and shares a collective responsibility.
Nobody escaped before
No one managed to avoid previous challenges or hardships.
Wait for something magical
Anticipating a transformative and extraordinary event or experience.
Mistake turned into miracle
A misstep resulted in an unexpected positive outcome.
Lyrics © WORDS & MUSIC A DIV OF BIG DEAL MUSIC LLC, WORDS & MUSIC A DIV OF BIG DEAL MUSIC LLC
Written by: Lucy Dacus
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Mary Lou Lord
Great writing. I cannot get this chorus out of my brain. !!! "Yes You're Evil But You're Not That Bad". omfg.
sooo good. The
whole-thingfrom the production, the lyrics, the vocal delivery. Perfect.Boston Guy in the midwest
Hi Mary. I miss the north shore of Massachusetts.
Mary Lou Lord
@The Heart Of A Blackbird Hiya.
The Heart Of A Blackbird
Hi Mary. :)
Boston Guy in the midwest
Beautiful Americana tune with a lovely sounding steel pedal guitar and spot-on lyrics. Loved you in Lawrence a few nights ago. I’m sure next time you play in this area it’ll be at The Granada or Uptown. Skyward in Triumph.
New Alternative 40 Chart
"Forever Half Mast" debuted at #8 on the New Alternative 40 Chart this week!
Harley Dan
I love the song and the meaning behind it. I usually listen to rock/pop punk but i adore songs like this . Touches the soul
Rosemary Bloom
I love how this song starts out with a light nostalgic tempo that then builds into it's final end as a dark militaristic march. Totally unexpected and a great way to tell the story in her lyrics.
Elle
WHO ELSE SHAKING THEIR ASS TO LUCY’S NEW SONG?!🤪
Mike McNitt
Another lyrically wonderful track. Thank you for sharing. Be well.