Meaning and Lyrics of Look At You by Screaming Trees

“Look At You” by Screaming Trees is a haunting and introspective song that delves into themes of longing, pain, and second chances. The lyrics convey a sense of loss and the lingering presence of a past love, depicted as a ghost that haunts the singer’s mind and eyes in the night. The repetition of “her ghost hides in my mind” and “in a way she’s haunting me” sets a melancholic tone, suggesting that despite the passage of time, the memory of this person continues to affect the singer deeply.

The singer expresses a yearning for this lost love, describing the desire to have her back and how it breaks them down each time they think about her. The imagery of “rose colored skies, blue moonlight, and miracles” paints a picture of both beauty and longing, highlighting the emotional complexity of the singer’s feelings. The contrast between the serene imagery and the underlying pain in the lyrics creates a sense of inner turmoil and conflict.

The repeated refrain of “When I look at you, I’ve got a second chance” conveys a sense of hope and opportunity for reconciliation or redemption. The urgency in lines like “Really need to have you now” underscores the intensity of the singer’s emotions and the desire to make amends or reconnect with the person they are singing about.

The song also touches on the idea of enduring pain and how it cuts deep, as depicted in the lines “The quiet cuts me through, the candle burns, the knife is turned.” This imagery suggests the emotional wounds that linger despite time passing and the struggle to cope with the feelings of loss and longing.

Overall, “Look At You” by Screaming Trees is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotion. The evocative lyrics, accompanied by the band’s signature grunge sound, create a powerful and emotive listening experience that resonates with those who have experienced heartache and the yearning for a second chance at love.