Never Learn Not To Love

The Beach Boys' song 'Never Learn Not To Love' carries a haunting and complex narrative that delves into themes of love, submission, and control. The lyrics, written by Dennis Wilson, are famously linked to Charles Manson, who originally penned the song under the title 'Cease to Exist.' This connection adds a layer of darkness and intrigue to the song, as Manson's influence is evident in the themes of surrender and devotion that permeate the lyrics.

The song opens with a plea for love and submission: 'Cease to resist, come on say you love me / Give up your world, come on and be with me.' These lines suggest a desire for complete control and possession, urging the listener to abandon their own world and identity to merge with the speaker. The repetition of 'I'm your kind, I'm your kind, and I see' reinforces the idea of a shared identity or destiny, further emphasizing the demand for submission.

As the song progresses, the lyrics continue to explore the idea of unconditional love and devotion. The lines 'Never had a lesson I ever learned / I know I could never learn not to love you' suggest an almost obsessive attachment, where the speaker is incapable of not loving the object of their affection. The repeated calls to 'come in closer' create an atmosphere of intimacy, but also a sense of entrapment, as if the listener is being drawn into a web of control and manipulation. The notion of 'submission as a gift' further underscores the power dynamics at play, highlighting the darker aspects of love and devotion.

The Beach Boys' harmonious and melodic style contrasts sharply with the unsettling themes of the song, creating a dissonance that makes 'Never Learn Not To Love' a compelling and thought-provoking piece. The song serves as a reminder of the complexities and potential dangers of love, especially when intertwined with themes of control and submission.