God Only Knows
New West
The Struggles and Resilience of Youth in 'God Only Knows'
New West's song 'God Only Knows' delves into the complexities and struggles of a young woman navigating her life. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her journey, marked by emotional turmoil and a relentless search for identity and belonging. The opening lines, 'Tipping the bottle 'cause she's been in trouble / And no, there's no easy way out,' suggest a coping mechanism for her unresolved issues, hinting at a deeper sense of despair and confusion. This sets the stage for a narrative that explores themes of regret, missed opportunities, and the quest for self-fulfillment.
The song further explores her internal conflict and societal pressures. Lines like 'And she don't want children / And she grew up missing home' highlight her struggle with traditional expectations and her own desires. The recurring phrase 'God only knows' underscores the uncertainty and the constant battle she faces in trying to carve out a space for herself in the world. Her move to LA and subsequent relationship with a boy from Detroit symbolize her attempts to redefine herself and find new dreams, yet the lyrics reveal that these changes do not necessarily bring her the peace or fulfillment she seeks.
The chorus, 'How does it feel to be young? / Reckless and real / Weightlessly under the gun,' captures the essence of youthful exuberance mixed with the pressure to conform and succeed. The juxtaposition of being 'over the Moon and carelessly under the Sun' reflects the highs and lows of her experiences, emphasizing the duality of freedom and responsibility. Through this poignant narrative, New West encapsulates the universal struggle of finding one's place in the world while grappling with personal demons and societal expectations.