The Bad In Each Other

Feist's song 'The Bad In Each Other' delves into the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on how love can sometimes bring out the worst in people. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship where both partners struggle to find the good in each other, despite their inherent goodness. The opening lines, 'Speak plain he said / But didn’t say / He acted that way and held me like a cup,' suggest a communication breakdown and emotional disconnect. The metaphor of being held like a cup, filled up, and then poured out, encapsulates the cyclical nature of their interactions, where moments of intimacy are followed by feelings of emptiness and doubt.

The chorus, 'When a good man and a good woman / Can’t find the good in each other / Then a good man and a good woman / Will bring out the worst in the other,' is a poignant reflection on how even well-intentioned individuals can end up hurting each other when they fail to connect on a deeper level. This sentiment is further emphasized by the imagery of becoming 'fluorescently blue' and traveling 'down the neon river,' which evokes a sense of artificiality and sadness. The use of 'fluorescently blue' suggests a bright yet cold and unnatural state, highlighting the emotional distance and disconnection between the partners.

Feist's lyrical storytelling is both poetic and raw, capturing the essence of a relationship that has lost its way. The song serves as a reminder that love, while powerful, can also be fraught with challenges. It underscores the importance of understanding and communication in maintaining a healthy relationship. The recurring theme of 'the bad in each other' is a stark reminder of how easily love can turn into something painful when mutual respect and empathy are lacking.