Can't Count Tears
Old Man Luedecke Lyrics

In the first verse of "Can't Count Tears," the singer sets the scene of a chaotic rush hour interrupting carefully made plans, evoking a sense of frustration and disarray. The mention of vodka in the fridge with a "haunting tune" alludes to a sense of longing or melancholy, perhaps for something that is no longer attainable or present. The absence of a beloved song for several weeks hints at a loss or lack of joy in the singer's life, symbolized by the bird that may have left and will not return.

The repeated refrain "You can't count tears in the ocean" introduces a theme of overwhelming emotions that cannot easily be quantified or contained. This imagery is juxtaposed with the specific reference to the "dying days of June," a time of transition and potential loss as the month comes to an end.

The second verse delves deeper into the singer's personal struggle, as he navigates through a metaphorical journey represented by the miles traveled in different gears of a vehicle. The plea for water from Sylvie underscores a sense of desperation and physical need, while the contemplation of overcoming the "ass-drag blues" reflects a desire to break free from stagnation and hardship. The mention of "paying dues" suggests a willingness to work hard and persevere, even when faced with challenges.

As the song progresses, the singer arrives at Queensland beach, a symbolic place of rest and contemplation. The decision to let the traffic pass and soak in the atmosphere speaks to a moment of surrender and acceptance. The juxtaposition of the southern breeze and western tune conveys a sense of displacement and longing for home, as the sea serves as a powerful force that both takes away and returns the singer's sorrow. The repeated reminder that tears cannot be counted in the vastness of the ocean reinforces the idea of emotional depth and complexity that cannot easily be measured or understood.