East Side of Sorrow Lyrics – Zach Bryan

[Verse 2]
Here, the focus shifts to a different kind of loss—the death of a loved one. The protagonist's grief is palpable as he describes spending time in a waiting room, hoping for a positive outcome. However, despite the doctors' efforts, he ultimately lost this person who represented a source of goodness in his life. The mention of "Tulsa streets" implies a sense of displacement and wandering. He recounts a moment of awakening as light starts to filter in from the east. This can be interpreted metaphorically as a glimmer of hope amid darkness. The verse also depicts the protagonist struggling with his emotions, asking why God seemed absent in his time of need....Read More

[Chorus]
The chorus brings a message of resilience and renewal. The sun rising on the "east side of sorrow" symbolizes the promise of a new day, a fresh start, and the possibility of healing. The call to "pack your bags west" and "stick out your chest" implies an urging to face challenges head-on and embark on a journey, likely a metaphor for moving forward in life despite the hardships. The chorus suggests that one should not give sorrow a reason to persist; rather, one should let go of pain and allow it to dissipate.

[Verse 3]
In this verse, the focus shifts to the protagonist's concerns about a brother who appears to be struggling mentally, possibly due to the traumas he experienced. The reference to "the Navy" and "brave boys from these run down sticks" suggests that these hardships are shared by others from similar backgrounds who served in the military. The protagonist questions the authenticity of expressing pain through songs and ponders whether it becomes a trivialized experience. He invites someone to come home if they have the time, making a connection to the music of the band Turnpike Troubadours, which is known for its emotional and reflective lyrics.

[Chorus]
The final chorus reiterates the message of hope and resilience. The rising sun continues to symbolize the opportunity for renewal and the chance to move beyond sorrow. The repetition of "Let it be, then let it go" underscores the importance of acceptance and release, suggesting that dwelling on pain and suffering only prolongs their impact.

In its entirety, "East Side of Sorrow" is a poignant exploration of the complexities of human emotion, the scars left by life's challenges, and the importance of finding a way to move forward despite the weight of sorrow. The lyrics touch on the themes of war, loss, grief, faith, and the healing power of time and resilience. ...Read Less