Black Market

Song Meaning

Les Gordon's "Black Market," featuring Rebecca Daniels, isn't just a song; it's a chilling dissection of emotional commodification. The phrase itself conjures images of illicit trade, of something precious being bartered in the shadows, away from ethical oversight. Daniels' lyrics paint a portrait of vulnerability offered up for exploitation: 'This is my heart / Driftin' in scarlet a piece of art / And maybe you can sell it on the black market.' The heart, traditionally the seat of love and emotion, is rendered as a 'piece of art,' suggesting a crafted, perhaps even performative, display of feeling. Yet, the 'scarlet' hue hints at pain, passion, or even shame – emotions that become currency in this dark exchange. The verses, though somewhat fragmented, deepen the sense of unease. There’s a struggle for control, a negotiation of terms before the 'take-on,' implying a predatory dynamic. The phrase 'send it to the moon' could represent a desperate attempt to rid oneself of painful memories, or a sarcastic dismissal of someone's emotional baggage. The black market, in this context, becomes a metaphor for relationships where genuine connection is secondary to transactional gain. One party offers emotional availability (or the appearance of it), while the other seeks to profit, whether through validation, control, or some other form of personal gratification. The repetition of the chorus, with its haunting 'Market, my heart' outro, drives home the dehumanizing effect of this exchange. The heart, once a symbol of individuality and unique experience, is reduced to a mere product, indistinguishable from other commodities circulating within this shadowy economy. "Black Market" isn't a celebration of love; it's a stark warning about the dangers of emotional exploitation and the commodification of the self in a world where even feelings can be bought and sold.