Coal

The song’s main theme revolves around the challenges of life and the emotional weight it carries. The narrator feels stuck between the idea of hope and the harsh realities of loneliness and love. It’s about finding oneself in a tough situation and questioning why, despite all the pressure, they still feel like they're not shining bright like a diamond, but rather remaining as coal.

Verse 1

Well, I remember what you told me
Said drinking was unholy
So Lord, can you point me to the creek?
And I still keep it with me

This verse sets a reflective tone. The narrator recalls advice from someone they cared about, hinting at a past relationship that carries emotional weight. The mention of "drinking was unholy" shows a struggle with temptation and perhaps guilt. Asking for direction to the creek suggests a desire for clarity or escape, while still holding onto memories of that person.

Chorus

And through unfavored weather
And holes in the leather
These boots still covered in tar
Well, I'm still praying to the heavens
And hoping for them seven's
But hope only gets a man so far

The chorus highlights the ongoing struggles. The imagery of bad weather and worn-out boots symbolizes the tough journey the narrator is on. They’re still trying to find comfort in prayer and luck, but it’s clear that hope alone isn’t enough to change their circumstances. It’s like they’re caught in a cycle where they’re trying hard but not seeing the results they desire.

Verse 2

This game of life plays heavy on my heart
And love is tough, but loneliness is twice as hard
And I'll carry that 'bout everywhere I go
They say pressure makes diamonds
How the hell am I still coal?

In this verse, the narrator expresses the weight of life’s challenges. They recognize that while love can be tough, the feeling of loneliness is even worse. The line about carrying that feeling everywhere shows how it sticks with them. The comparison of pressure making diamonds but still feeling like coal reflects deep frustration and a sense of being trapped in their current situation.

Chorus

Now I've seen Heaven without dyin'
Met the devil without tryin'
And they both seem to want to talk to me
But I'm all out of luck now
And my dreams aren't worth a buck
How it's tough tryin' to land on my feet

The repetition of the chorus reinforces the heaviness of life. The narrator feels torn between good and bad influences, represented by Heaven and the devil. They feel unlucky and struggle to find their footing, which adds to the sense of despair. It’s a powerful illustration of feeling lost and battling both internal and external challenges.

Bridge

When this game of life plays heavy on my heart
And love is tough, but loneliness is twice as hard
And I'll carry that 'bout everywhere I go
And they say pressure makes diamonds
How the hell?

The bridge echoes the emotional struggles mentioned earlier. The repetition emphasizes the burden the narrator carries. It’s like they’re pleading for understanding, questioning why they haven’t transformed into something better despite facing so much pressure. This part adds a sense of urgency and desperation.

Outro

This game of life plays heavy on my heart
And love is tough, but loneliness is twice as hard
And I'll carry that 'bout everywhere I go
And they say pressure makes diamonds
How the hell am I still coal?

The outro wraps everything up by repeating the central theme. It leaves listeners with a lingering sense of confusion and frustration. The narrator’s journey feels unresolved, as they continue to grapple with their feelings of inadequacy. It’s a powerful way to end, leaving the audience reflecting on the weight of their own experiences.

Closing Thoughts

"Coal" is a raw and honest exploration of the struggles many face in life. Through vivid imagery and relatable emotions, Dylan Gossett captures feelings of loneliness and frustration. The song resonates with anyone who’s ever felt stuck, making it a poignant reminder of the challenges that come with trying to find hope in difficult times.