Jackie Wants A Black Eye Lyrics

Lyric discussion by patrickynt 

Cover art for Jackie Wants A Black Eye lyrics by Dr. Dog

Interesting song, one of my favorite by Dr. Dog.

Jackie is jumping in the quicksand But it isn't what you think. She's safe because she knows The more you fight, the more you sink

And John is following the black cloud To keep him from the sun. So he bends over now Something has finally begun.

I've long been fond of the line "the more you fight the more you sink" in this verse, in regard to quick sand. Very clever.

But I had a new thought today. Jackie seems to not be trying to find any good in things, he does NOT fight the quick sand. Interesting. (also accepting that if he fights, it might get worse). Inaction. John seems to be trying to find the WORSE in things, i.e. he is following the black cloud. Action but in a negative sense. Ok, got it.

Maybe I myself am finally passing through, my black eye is healed. Maybe there is another character, maybe it's Toby or the songwriter or you and me.

But maybe our protagonist has moved on, after accepting his lot. Maybe he/she is following the sun instead! Action, but in a positive sense.

Anyways, I'm just pontificating.

Positive
Subjective
Enjoyment
Introspection
Change
Acceptance
Interpretation
Hope