Song meaning of Carlos is Crying by The Hold Steady

The lyrics of "Carlos is Crying" by The Hold Steady tell a story about a man named Carlos who is going through a difficult time. The song begins by mentioning how the singer sang a song poorly, drawing attention to the fact that something is already off. The atmosphere is not very lively, as the rain has washed out the softball games, and the singer has slipped out of work. It becomes clear that Carlos has been distant ever since his sister left for Denver with someone who has questionable intentions.

Carlos is upset about his sister's situation and hopes she is not at home when the person she is with gets arrested. This hits him hard emotionally, and he starts crying. The song reflects on how it is different for boys to show emotion, implying that society often expects them to be tough and not express vulnerability. Carlos questions how they ended up in this situation and wonders if they have asked all the right questions. The mention of the burner and butter blackening could symbolize neglect or allowing things to deteriorate.

The lyrics mention how they used to be carefree and have fun, but now everything seems to revolve around money and work. Carlos hasn't been showing up for his job, and it's taking a toll on him. The singer expresses his love and understanding for Carlos, acknowledging his hurt and the fear he has for his sister. The song ends with the line "turn off the burner, the butter is burning," suggesting that they need to address their problems and not let them worsen.

Overall, the lyrics of "Carlos is Crying" convey a message about the challenges and emotional struggles in life. It highlights the importance of addressing and facing one's problems instead of letting them fester and hinder personal growth and well-being. Additionally, it touches upon the gendered expectations of emotion and the need for support and understanding during difficult times.