The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Red Hands" by the artist "Walk Off The Earth"

In "Red Hands" by Walk Off The Earth, the lyrical protagonist grapples with a complicated relationship where he is clearly at fault. He acknowledges his mistakes: "I know I messed up a couple times," and is willing to go to great lengths to fix things: "this time I'd rewind it all back." However, he doesn't fully understand what his partner wants and repeatedly asks: "Is that what you want?".

The lyrics reveal an internal conflict within the protagonist. On one hand, he admits his guilt: "I realized it's my bad, my hands." On the other hand, he tries to deflect responsibility using the metaphor of bloodstained hands: "I don't see how it's my fault, I can't see color." This metaphor weaves throughout the song, highlighting the duality of his stance.

The protagonist confesses to deceit: "Never meant to lie to you. Can't believe I put you through it," yet doesn't deny preferring to "lie and constantly miss things." He recognizes his partner's reaction to his actions: "I know you're heated, I know you're seething. Smoke's coming off of you with every word you're breathing," but is slow to change his behavior.

The chorus, repeating throughout the song, reinforces a sense of hopelessness. The image of a loaded gun, "not in my hands," symbolizes the destructive power of the situation, which the protagonist feels powerless to control. He acknowledges his responsibility for the "fire" but claims he "never touched the match."

Overall, "Red Hands" is a song about a complex relationship where one partner is tangled in their own mistakes and can't find a way out, while the other suffers from their actions. The open ending leaves the listener pondering the future of the characters and their ability to break this vicious cycle.