Song meaning of In Lieu Of Flowers by Aaron West & the Roaring Twenties

"In Lieu Of Flowers" by Aaron West & the Roaring Twenties is a heartfelt and introspective song that delves into themes of personal struggle, friendship, and the desire for redemption. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's emotional journey and his determination to mend the wounds that have plagued him for years.

The song begins with the narrator expressing his fear and vulnerability, symbolized by the rain on the roof of a parked car. He admits to feeling hollow and isolated, having kept his true self hidden from others for almost a decade. This sense of isolation is further emphasized by the line, "No one's seen me without my clothes on in almost a decade," suggesting a deep-seated emotional detachment.

However, the chorus introduces a glimmer of hope and support from a friend named Sam. Sam encourages the narrator to hold on, assuring him that the wounds will eventually heal. The idea of writing in wet cement instead of offering flowers implies a lasting and permanent commitment to their friendship, as wet cement hardens and becomes a solid foundation. The line, "I'm with you till the bitter end," reinforces the idea of unwavering loyalty and support.

In the second verse, the narrator takes action to improve his situation. He books a three-night gig at a club in the village, showing his determination to make positive changes. He also acknowledges the need to address his personal issues, as his friend Eric offers to fly out if he can clean up his act. The narrator promises not to lose his friends again and vows to fix his problems.

The bridge introduces a moment of reflection and regret. The narrator acknowledges his past mistakes and attempts to make amends by buying a notebook and a hoodie for his friend's birthday. However, he realizes that saying sorry is not enough and that he needs to give his friend space to heal. The mention of the upcoming leap year suggests that there is time for growth and change, indicating a sense of optimism for the future.

The chorus is repeated multiple times throughout the song, emphasizing the importance of holding on and allowing time for healing. The image of writing in wet cement and shaking off the dirt symbolizes the act of moving forward and leaving the past behind. The repeated affirmation, "I'm with you till the bitter end," reinforces the narrator's commitment to his friend and their enduring bond.

Overall, "In Lieu Of Flowers" is a poignant and introspective song that explores themes of personal growth, friendship, and the desire for redemption. It showcases the narrator's journey towards self-improvement and his unwavering dedication to his friends. The lyrics evoke a sense of hope and resilience, reminding listeners of the power of support and the potential for healing.