Song meaning of Bittersweet by Zac Brown Band

The song "Bittersweet" by Zac Brown Band explores the emotions of grief, loss, and the bittersweet nature of memories. The lyrics depict a person who is reminiscing about a loved one who has passed away. They find solace by the ocean, where the waves symbolize the presence of their departed loved one.

The chorus reveals the conflicting feelings that the narrator experiences. They can't physically feel the person's presence, but they can sense their memory and the impact they had on their life. The memories are vivid, as they can "close [their] eyes, see [their] face" and "hold on tight to yesterday."

The song also touches upon the advice given by the loved one before they died. They encourage the narrator to live life to the fullest, to cherish the time they have, and to not have any regrets. The lyrics suggest that the narrator tries to honor this advice, but the grief still lingers, making the experience bittersweet.

In the end, the narrator metaphorically brings their loved one back by pouring them "across the southern sky," representing their remembrance and the immortalization of their spirit. This act brings a mix of emotions, leading to the bittersweet conclusion of the song.

Overall, "Bittersweet" delves into the complexity of grieving, the power of memories, and the conflicting emotions that arise when trying to move forward while still holding onto the past.