Meaning of Black And Blue by Whitesnake

The overall theme of the Whitesnake song "Black and Blue" revolves around a tumultuous and passionate love affair. The lyrics tell the story of a relationship filled with intensity, longing, and desire. While on the surface, the lyrics may seem straightforward, looking closer reveals hidden and unexpected themes that contribute to the song's depth and imagination.One standout lyric in the song is "You never call me, 'Babe,' until your man is gone." This line hints at the idea of secrecy and forbidden love. It suggests that the protagonist is involved with someone who is already in a committed relationship, making their encounters more thrilling and secretive. This theme explores the thrill of the forbidden and the allure of keeping a relationship hidden.Another impactful lyric is "You ask me how I am and if I'm doing well when all you want from me is just to ring your bell." This line touches upon the concept of being used for physical gratification. It suggests that one party in the relationship is primarily interested in the physical aspects rather than a deeper emotional connection. This theme delves into the complexities of intimacy and the power dynamics that can exist within a passionate relationship.The chorus, specifically the repetition of "Black and blue," brings up an unexpected theme – the metaphorical portrayal of love as a mixture of pain and pleasure. While traditionally love is associated with warmth and tenderness, here it is depicted as something more raw and intense. The idea of being loved until one is "black and blue" represents the passion and intensity of the relationship. It suggests that the protagonist wants their love to consume them completely, disregarding potential pain or consequences.Moreover, the line "You got the key to love dressed in your innocent smile" presents the theme of deception. This lyric implies that the person the protagonist is involved with may appear innocent and harmless, but behind their facade lies a seductive and manipulative power. This theme explores the idea that love can sometimes be deceptive, blurring the lines between truth and falsehood.Another imaginative theme that can be derived from the song is the exploration of addiction. The line "Take your time, we can do some lines 'cause it's alright" can be interpreted as a reference to substance abuse or indulging in vices to escape reality. This suggests that the relationship serves as a means of escaping the pressures and troubles of the outside world. It paints a picture of two individuals caught up in a love so addictive that they are willing to forgo their responsibilities and potentially engage in self-destructive behaviors.Furthermore, the repeated line "We can feel fine drinking midnight wine" can be seen as a metaphor for staying up late and indulging in the passion and sensuality of the relationship. It emphasizes the idea of living in the moment and embracing the intoxicating nature of love.Overall, "Black and Blue" encompasses various themes that transcend the conventional portrayal of love. While it explores intense passion and desire, it also delves into the intricacies of secrecy, deception, addiction, and the unpredictable nature of love itself. Through its creative and unexpected lyrics, the song captivates listeners with its vivid imagery and portrayal of a challenging yet alluring love affair.