The Meaning Behind The Song: Cold on the Shoulder by Gordon Lightfoot
Gordon Lightfoot is a Canadian singer-songwriter who has been active in the music industry since the 1960s. He has released numerous hits over the years, one of which is “Cold on the Shoulder.” The song was written and recorded in 1972 and has since become a classic.
Despite being a love song, “Cold on the Shoulder” has a deeper meaning that goes beyond romance. The song has been interpreted in many ways, and everyone seems to have their own opinion about what it means. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the meaning behind the song and explore its various interpretations.
Overview of the Song
“Cold on the Shoulder” is a slow, melancholic ballad that speaks of a troubled relationship. The song is built around a simple melody and features Lightfoot’s signature fingerpicking style. The lyrics are poetic and thought-provoking, with each verse painting a vivid picture of a broken relationship.
At its core, the song is about the struggles that come with getting over a failed relationship. The narrator sings about his pain and sadness, noting that he’s feeling “cold on the shoulder” and his emotions have become too overwhelming. Despite the pain, he’s unable to let go of the past and move on.
The Song’s Interpretations
The meaning of “Cold on the Shoulder” is open to interpretation, and people have offered varying opinions about what the song is really about. Here are some of the most popular interpretations of the song:
1. A Broken Relationship
The most common interpretation of “Cold on the Shoulder” is that it’s a love song that speaks of a failed relationship. The lyrics suggest that the narrator is struggling to come to terms with the end of the relationship, and he’s not sure how to move forward.
Lines like “I can’t take it any longer” and “If I could only hold you now and make the pain go away” suggest that the narrator is hurting and yearning to be with his lover once again. However, the fact that he’s feeling “cold on the shoulder” indicates that their relationship has become frigid and distant.
2. The Music Business
Another interpretation of “Cold on the Shoulder” is that it’s a commentary on the music industry and the struggles that come with being an artist. Lightfoot himself has acknowledged that the song has a deeper meaning, and some have suggested that it’s a reflection of his own experiences in the music industry.
Lines like “Don’t it get you when you’re feeling worn out like a dirty window” and “The music’s got you and you really might know what it’s like to be alone” suggest that the narrator is experiencing the loneliness and isolation that often come with being a musician. The “cold on the shoulder” feeling could be a metaphor for the industry’s indifference toward struggling artists.
3. Political Strife
There’s another interpretation of “Cold on the Shoulder” that suggests it’s a political song that speaks of the unrest and turmoil of the 1970s. Some have suggested that the song is a reflection of the social and political climate of the time, where people were fighting for change and equality.
Lines like “the people run from the news, it might be cancer” and “Farewell to all your friends, they won’t be there for you when you need them” suggest that there’s a feeling of hopelessness and fear in the air. The “cold on the shoulder” feeling could be a metaphor for the lack of empathy and understanding that people had for one another during this time.
The Impact of the Song
Since its release in 1972, “Cold on the Shoulder” has become a classic and has had a significant impact on the music industry. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, Emmylou Harris, and Anne Murray, among others.
It has also been featured in TV shows and movies, cementing its place in popular culture. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless lyrics and poignant message.
Conclusion
“Cold on the Shoulder” is a classic song that has stood the test of time. Its simple melody and poetic lyrics make it a timeless love song, but it’s the deeper meaning behind the words that give it its enduring appeal. Whether it’s about a broken relationship, the struggles of the music industry, or the political climate of the 1970s, the song speaks to everyone in its own unique way.
