Never Be Mine
Angel Olsen
The Heartache of Unrequited Love in 'Never Be Mine'
Angel Olsen's song 'Never Be Mine' delves deep into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing and heartache, as the narrator grapples with the painful reality that the person they desire will never reciprocate their feelings. The opening lines, 'Coming from an endless place / Heaven hits me when I see your face,' set the tone for the song, highlighting the intense emotions that the sight of the beloved evokes. This is immediately followed by the stark contrast of 'I go blind, every time,' suggesting that the intensity of these feelings is overwhelming and blinding.
The repeated refrain, 'You'll never be mine,' serves as a poignant reminder of the unattainable nature of the narrator's desires. This repetition underscores the sense of hopelessness and resignation that permeates the song. The narrator's willingness to 'watch you turn and walk away' and 'look right through me' further emphasizes their acceptance of this painful reality. Despite their deep feelings, they are resigned to the fact that the object of their affection will never be theirs.
The song also touches on the complexity of emotions involved in unrequited love. The lines 'He wants to know why / I only want to know you' suggest a third party's involvement, adding another layer of emotional complexity. The narrator's acknowledgment of 'I know the feeling / This time I swear that I do' indicates a deep understanding of the situation, yet they are still powerless to change it. This blend of understanding and helplessness is a common theme in Angel Olsen's music, which often explores the intricacies of human emotions and relationships.
'Never Be Mine' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of unrequited love, capturing the pain, longing, and resignation that come with loving someone who will never love you back. Angel Olsen's evocative lyrics and emotive delivery make this song a poignant reflection on the complexities of the human heart.