Meaning of Honey Jars by Bryan John Appleby

The Haunting Melody of "Honey Jars" by Bryan John Appleby: A Journey Through Loss and Longing

As I sat alone in my dimly lit room, the soft whispers of Bryan John Appleby’s "Honey Jars" enveloped me, transporting me to a world of sorrow and yearning. The song’s poignant lyrics, painfully honest and vulnerable, resonated deeply with me, as if the words were speaking directly to my soul. In this article, I’ll delve into the meaning behind "Honey Jars," exploring the themes of loss, loneliness, and the longing for connection and belonging.

A Sense of Desolation

The opening lines, "I pick up a broken comb, Run it through my thin gray hair," set the tone for the rest of the song, conjuring an image of a worn-out individual, worn down by the weight of time and experience. The protagonist’s vulnerability is palpable, as he acknowledges his lack of direction and motivation, leaving him feeling lost and aimless. This sense of desolation is further emphasized by the image of the protagonist sitting on the sidewalk, snow falling on his knees, as he’s locked out of the world, unable to find comfort or shelter.

The Weight of Longing

The song’s lyrics are littered with metaphors that convey the crushing weight of longing. "Well I should have seen this coming, Don’t know why I’m surprised, Cause every vessel on its way down, Takes with it the captains life" is a powerful example of this. The metaphorical vessel sinking, taking its captain’s life, powerfully illustrates the consequences of downfall, highlighting the toll that loss and heartache can take on one’s well-being.

The Longing for Connection

The song’s protagonist is consumed by a deep sense of loneliness and exclusion. "Though I’m blind, my dear, I see, The parade goes on without me" is a heart-wrenching declaration of being overlooked and ignored. The image of physical and emotional pain, as well as the lost key and the inability to find comfort, poignantly captures the anguish of being disconnected.

Finding Solace in Memories

In the midst of this desolation, the protagonist finds solace in memories. "I read that old men will see visions, And young men will follow dreams, And I believed it when I read it, I see your face in everything" suggests a longing for the return of the lost loved one. The image of honey jars being frozen and books browning in the window poignantly illustrates the sense of stagnation and decay, mirroring the protagonist’s emotional state.

A Surrender to the Emotions

The closing lines, "Though I’m blind my dear I see, Let the chorus sing without me, My body breaks, my mind it sleeps, With you, oh oh oh", reveal a surrender to the overwhelming emotions. The protagonist finds peace in the idea of joining their loved one in death, escaping the pain and isolation of their current existence.

A Powerful Exploration of Human Emotion

"Honey Jars" by Bryan John Appleby is a poignant exploration of human emotion, delving into the depths of loss, loneliness, and the yearning for connection and belonging. The song’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing the listener in and refusing to let go. As I reflect on my own experiences with this song, I am reminded of the emotional resonance it has, and the deep connections it can form with those who listen. "Honey Jars" is a song that will stay with you long after the music fades away, leaving an indelible mark on your heart and soul.

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