Always Something
Cage The Elephant
The Unpredictable Chaos of Life in 'Always Something'
Cage The Elephant's song 'Always Something' delves into the unpredictable and often chaotic nature of life. The lyrics paint vivid scenarios where the protagonist faces unexpected challenges and betrayals, highlighting the inevitability of life's twists and turns. The song opens with a man who works tirelessly to support his family, only to come home early and find his wife with another man. This stark betrayal sets the tone for the song, emphasizing that no matter how hard one tries, life can throw unforeseen obstacles in the way.
The chorus reinforces this theme, with the repeated line 'It's always somethin'' serving as a reminder that life is full of surprises, both good and bad. The protagonist's encounter with a stranded man in the rain, whom he helps out of the goodness of his heart, only to be attacked and left covered in blood, further underscores the unpredictability and sometimes harsh reality of life. This narrative suggests that even acts of kindness can lead to unexpected and negative outcomes, reinforcing the idea that one cannot control everything that happens.
The song also touches on the internal struggle of trying to make sense of life's chaos. The protagonist's reflection in the mirror, seeing fear and uncertainty, symbolizes the internal battle many face when confronted with life's unpredictability. The line 'Why can't you see you can't control the weather?' serves as a metaphor for the futility of trying to control every aspect of life. Ultimately, 'Always Something' is a poignant reminder of the inherent unpredictability of life and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.