No One Is To Blame

Howard Jones' song 'No One Is To Blame' delves into the theme of unattainable desires and the frustrations that come with them. The lyrics paint vivid pictures of situations where one can see, feel, or even come close to something they want, but ultimately cannot have. This is evident in lines like 'You can look at the menu but you just can't eat' and 'You can dip your foot in the pool but you can't have a swim.' These metaphors highlight the universal human experience of longing for something just out of reach, whether it be love, success, or fulfillment.

The chorus, 'And you want her and she wants you / We want everyone / And you want her and she wants you / No one, no one, no one ever is to blame,' suggests a mutual desire that remains unfulfilled. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the complexities of relationships and the societal pressures that often prevent people from being with who they truly want. The repetition of 'No one ever is to blame' implies that these situations are not the fault of any individual, but rather a result of circumstances beyond one's control.

Jones also touches on the idea of societal constraints and personal limitations. Lines like 'You're the fastest runner but you're not allowed to win' and 'You can build a mansion but you just can't live in it' reflect the barriers that people face, whether imposed by society or by their own insecurities. The song captures the essence of human frustration and the sense of helplessness that comes with it, making it a poignant reflection on the struggles of life and love.