We Never Had a Chance

Brian Jonestown Massacre's song "We Never Had a Chance" delves into the complexities of self-love, societal pressures, and the existential struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The opening lines, "You feel a love / Well you better love yourself," set the tone for a narrative that emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance amidst external chaos. The cautionary note, "Be careful now / Because love is against the law," suggests a world where genuine emotions are suppressed or deemed inappropriate, highlighting the conflict between personal authenticity and societal norms.

The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relentless battle against external forces that seek to undermine one's sense of self. Phrases like "The motherfuckers never stop drilling holes in your head" and "Everybody tries to tell you you're dead" evoke a sense of constant psychological warfare. This imagery underscores the idea that maintaining one's identity and sanity requires immense effort and resilience. The recurring theme of lies and deception, as seen in lines like "You close your eyes to look at the lies / And then you see it all," further emphasizes the difficulty of discerning truth in a world filled with falsehoods.

Despite the bleakness, the song offers a glimmer of hope through the metaphor of the "magic ring," symbolizing the possibility of seizing moments of clarity and transcendence. The closing lines, "Maybe now as you're starting to sink / You'll wake up and remember the words to your song," suggest that even in moments of despair, there is a chance for self-realization and connection. The song ultimately portrays the human experience as a continuous struggle to find meaning and authenticity, urging listeners to hold on to their inner truths despite external pressures.