Never Understand
The Jesus And Mary Chain
The Struggle for Understanding in 'Never Understand'
The Jesus And Mary Chain's song 'Never Understand' delves into the complexities of communication and the feeling of being misunderstood. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who feels disconnected from those around them, despite their efforts to be seen and heard. The opening lines, 'The sun comes up another day begins / And I don't even worry about the state I'm in,' suggest a sense of resignation and routine, where the protagonist is caught in a cycle of emotional and physical exhaustion. This sets the stage for the recurring theme of misunderstanding that permeates the song.
The chorus, 'You never understandin' / You never understand me,' is a direct and poignant expression of frustration. It highlights the gap between the protagonist's inner world and the perceptions of others. This sentiment is further emphasized in the lines, 'Don't turn around until you look at me / Why don't you take a second and tell me what you see.' Here, the protagonist is pleading for genuine recognition and understanding, but is met with disagreement and disbelief. The repetition of the word 'never' underscores the permanence of this disconnect, suggesting that the protagonist feels perpetually unseen and unheard.
The song also touches on themes of love and departure. The line, 'Thinking of love but I can't hear what you're saying / Tomorrow I'm leaving,' indicates a breaking point. Despite the protagonist's desire for connection, the lack of understanding leads to a decision to leave. This adds a layer of melancholy to the song, as it becomes clear that the protagonist's quest for understanding is not just about being heard, but also about finding a place where they truly belong. The Jesus And Mary Chain's signature blend of raw emotion and distorted sound amplifies these themes, making 'Never Understand' a powerful exploration of human connection and isolation.