Released: 2024
Zach Bryan’s ‘Sandpaper’ is a heartrending ballad about unrequited love and the struggle to move on. The song explores the theme of a love that’s out of reach, likened to sandpaper that binds the more you try to remove it.
Let’s break it down. The opening lines depict a longing for a love that the singer has never experienced. The fear of losing this love is greater than the fear of death, emphasizing the depth of his feelings.
The phrase ‘you ain’t out of my league, you’re out of this planet’ expresses the singer’s admiration for the object of his affection. She’s not just beyond his reach, she’s on a whole different level.
The ‘trip uptown’ represents an attempt to distract himself and clear his mind. However, like sandpaper, the more he tries to get rid of his feelings, the more they stick around.
The changing seasons symbolize the passage of time and the emotional journey of the singer. Winter, a ‘drag’, represents the gloomy period of unrequited love. Spring, a ‘friend’, signifies hope and renewal. The singer vows to love until ‘the summer comes back again’, showing his unwavering affection.
‘They’ve been tryin’ to smooth me out for 27 seasons now’ is a metaphor for the singer’s struggle to change or forget his feelings over a long period of time. ’27 seasons’ could refer to his age or the duration of his struggle.
The ‘cutting mill’ and ‘roof’ in the verse about northern thunder and pines are metaphors for shelter and protection. The singer wants to provide a safe place for his love, further emphasizing his deep affection.
Overall, ‘Sandpaper’ is a poignant portrayal of longing, struggle, and unchanging love. The song’s powerful lyrics and emotive delivery make it a standout track in Zach Bryan’s repertoire.
