Lyrics
Is there life after coal?
Questioning the existence or quality of life after the decline of coal mining.
What future for the collier?
Questioning what lies ahead for the coal miner in terms of prospects or opportunities.
The scab and the hardliner both
Both those who scab (work despite a strike) and those who strongly support the union have physical or emotional remnants (scars) from their mining experiences.
Wear the blues scars of a miner
Emphasizing the enduring marks (scars) left on individuals from their time as miners.
Rising up now from the earth
Metaphorical rise from the underground, carrying lasting marks and a sense of being marked or limited (branded and blinded) by the mining experience.
We're branded and we're blinded
References the contrast between natural light (sunlight) and unemployment (dole queue) that both highlight the marks of a miner.
The sunlight and the dole queue boast
Reiterating the enduring nature of the scars and their visibility in various aspects of life.
The blue scars of a miner
Questioning whether there are other coping mechanisms apart from alcohol, drugs, and memories for those affected by mining.
Is there anything but drink
Highlighting the potential limited options or coping mechanisms available to deal with the aftermath of mining.
Drugs and last reminders
Emphasizing the use of substances and lingering memories to cope with past experiences.
A single teardrop rolling down
Symbolizing a lone expression of grief or sadness associated with the enduring marks of a miner.
The blue scars of a miner
Reiterating the lasting emotional impact of the mining experience.
And in my dreams I work again
Expressing the reoccurrence of memories or dreams related to working in the mines.
And what was lost I find
Suggesting a sense of retrieval or rediscovery of what was lost while reminiscing about the mining days.
Pockets full down at the club
Implies having regained financial stability through material gains earned elsewhere (perhaps through gambling).
A chorus of Delilah
Reference to a common song (Delilah) sung collectively, possibly indicating a social aspect amid personal struggles.
Now I'll lay be down to die
Expressing a willingness or readiness to accept death, with a suggestion of being bound by the weight of past experiences.
Let the darkness bind us
Acceptance of succumbing to darkness, perhaps metaphorically indicating a submission to the impact of the mining life.
What I earned I earned for you
Implying that the fruits of labor were for the benefit of others, possibly loved ones, emphasizing sacrifice.
The blue scars of a miner
Reiterating the enduring marks or sacrifices made by miners for the betterment of others.
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