Near You Always

Jewel's song 'Near You Always' delves into the profound and often overwhelming emotions that come with deep romantic connections. The lyrics express a plea for restraint in expressing love, as the intensity of such emotions can be both exhilarating and terrifying. Jewel's words reveal a vulnerability, where the mere utterance of 'I love you' or a tender touch can cause her to tremble and crave more, highlighting the powerful effect her lover has on her. This vulnerability is a central theme, as she acknowledges the deep impact of her partner's actions and words on her emotional state.

The song uses vivid metaphors to convey the depth of these feelings. For instance, Jewel compares sweet kisses to a craving for a thousand more, and gentle touches to making other embraces seem pale in comparison. These metaphors illustrate the addictive nature of love and the way it can overshadow all other experiences. The repeated plea for her lover not to come too close or bring flowers underscores her fear of being overwhelmed by these intense emotions, yet paradoxically, she also expresses a desire to be near them always. This duality captures the push and pull of wanting to be close to someone while fearing the loss of control that comes with it.

Jewel's lyrical style is intimate and confessional, drawing listeners into her emotional world. The imagery of her heart being in her lover's hands and teeth conveys a sense of surrender and the potential for both pleasure and pain in love. The repetition of the desire to be 'near you always' at the end of the song emphasizes the inescapable nature of these feelings. Jewel's folk-influenced musical style, characterized by its simplicity and emotional honesty, enhances the raw and heartfelt message of the song, making it a poignant exploration of love's complexities.