Meaning and Lyrics of If I Go, I’m Goin by Gregory Alan Isakov

“If I Go, I’m Goin” by Gregory Alan Isakov is a poignant song that delves into themes of secrets, choices, and emotional turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the idea of leaving a familiar place, perhaps a home filled with hidden truths.

The first verse describes a house that holds secrets, with the singer indicating that they have prepared for a potential departure by hiding money in various places. This hints at a sense of uncertainty and the need for readiness to leave at a moment’s notice.

In the chorus, the singer expresses a willingness to leave if asked, but also dares to stay, showcasing a conflicting desire to both depart and stay rooted. The mention of going shameless and letting hunger take them suggests a sense of recklessness and an eagerness to follow their instincts.

The second verse further explores the dynamic between the singer and the house, personifying it as a talkative entity that keeps them awake at night. The reference to photographs knowing the singer is a liar adds a layer of complexity, hinting at a past filled with deceit and the weight of the consequences reflected in the burning down of the house.

The chorus is repeated, with slight variations, emphasizing the internal struggle and the intensity of emotions faced by the singer. The idea of going on fire or crazy and letting anger or the darlin’ take them implies a sense of losing control and being consumed by passionate impulses.

The bridge brings attention to the physical state of the house, with shingles shaking and the back door burning through, creating a vivid image of a place falling apart. The singer acknowledges the house as a keeper of memories, perhaps painful ones, reflecting on the emotional attachment to the place despite its flaws.

The outro echoes the chorus, emphasizing the idea of going crazy and letting the darlin’ take them, suggesting a surrender to fate or to a loved one’s influence in determining the path forward.

Overall, “If I Go, I’m Goin” is a deeply introspective song that navigates the complexities of decision-making, emotional turmoil, and the push and pull of attachments. The lyrical imagery, combined with Gregory Alan Isakov’s and Brandi Carlile’s vocals, creates a haunting and evocative portrait of a person on the brink of change.