Meaning of Handle On You - Parker McCollum
Parker McCollum's song "Handle On You" delves into the aftermath of heartbreak and the struggle to overcome the lingering pain of lost love. The lyrics intricately depict the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist as they navigate the absence of a significant other and the accompanying sense of emptiness and longing.
The opening lines, "I went and bought the biggest bottle they got 'cause you're gone," immediately set the tone for the song's exploration of self-medication and seeking solace in alcohol. This imagery of resorting to alcohol as a coping mechanism underscores the depth of the protagonist's emotional distress.
Throughout the song, the repetition of the phrase, "Tennessee and Kentucky 'cause you ain't here to love me," serves as a poignant reminder of the geographical and emotional distance between the protagonist and their lost love. This geographical separation becomes a metaphor for the emotional detachment and loneliness experienced in the absence of the loved one.
The line, "I tell myself that I should quit, but I don't listen to drunks," exposes the internal conflict within the protagonist. Despite recognizing the need to move on and break free from destructive habits, they find themselves unable to resist the temporary solace offered by alcohol, highlighting the complexities of grief and healing.
The chorus, "After all this back and forth, a fifth won't do, Well, I finally got a handle on you," encapsulates the song's central theme of grappling with the past and gaining mastery over one's emotions. The metaphor of having a "handle" on someone symbolizes the protagonist's journey towards acceptance and closure, ultimately finding a semblance of control amidst the chaos of heartbreak.
In conclusion, "Handle On You" by Parker McCollum offers a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of heartbreak and the various coping mechanisms employed to navigate through it. Through its poignant lyrics and soulful melody, the song invites listeners to delve into the depths of emotional pain and emerge with a newfound sense of resilience and understanding.
