Instructions for Dancing

Evie and X write the song “Black Box” together, and it works symbolically on two levels. Firstly, the act of them writing it speaks to their natural, comfortable connection and fluid teamwork. Evie and X are both creatives, and their partnership is deepened not only by dance but writing and playing music. The couple’s writing also foreshadows their future album—which is completed before X dies.

Secondly, the song has symbolic lyrics: It details the complexity, mystery, and powerful, lasting emotions of relationships, even after they end. Many of the lyrics act as metaphors for the uncertainty of love. Lines such as “our love just turns to ashes,” “you’re a black box falling to the sea,” and “nothing survives” convey the raw grief, loss, and loneliness that can occur in any relationship (109). The repeated line that “nothing survives” relates to the theme of Taking Risks and being vulnerable enough to dive into love, because even though all love ends, this doesn’t make it meaningless.

X channels his experience with his friend, Clay, and Evie channels her beliefs about love not lasting, to write their lyrics. The titular black box “sinks down out of sight,” leaving the singer “with nothing” but memories (109-10).