Meaning and Lyrics of Coal by Dylan Gossett

The song “Coal” by Dylan Gossett delves into deep emotional themes of struggle, loss, and resilience. In the first verse, the speaker recalls being advised against certain behaviors, possibly by a figure of authority, and seeks solace in nature, the creek, carrying memories and echoes of the past.

The second verse continues the narrative of enduring hardships, symbolized by weathered boots covered in tar. The speaker expresses a sense of faith and hope, as well as a recognition of the limitations of hope alone in facing life’s challenges.

The chorus reflects the weight of life’s burdens on the speaker’s heart, highlighting the dual difficulties of navigating love and loneliness. The use of the metaphor “pressure makes diamonds, how the hell am I still coal?” suggests a feeling of being stuck in a raw and unrefined state, longing for transformation and growth.

In the third verse, the speaker reflects on profound experiences, encountering both heaven and the devil, and feeling lost and disconnected from their dreams. Despite facing setbacks and feeling out of luck, there is a resilient spirit evident in the lyrics.

The bridge shifts to a moment of decision and longing for change, marked by a pivotal event in October that left the speaker feeling the chill of isolation. The mention of sobriety and the quest for a four-leaf clover symbolize a search for luck and redemption, a desire to escape the current struggles.

The recurring chorus emphasizes the heaviness of life’s challenges, the complexities of love and loneliness, and the enduring nature of personal burdens. The repetition of the question “how the hell am I still coal?” underscores the speaker’s introspection and yearning for transformation amidst adversity.

Overall, “Coal” by Dylan Gossett is a poignant exploration of the human experience, resilience in the face of hardships, and the longing for internal alchemy to turn struggles into strength and growth.