Even If We Try

Night Beds' song "Even If We Try" delves into the complexities of human emotions, memory, and the struggle for truth. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an internal battle, where the protagonist grapples with the past and the present. The opening lines, "Even if we try, even if we try / To make ourselves alright / To mend our severed lies," suggest a futile effort to reconcile with past mistakes and mend broken relationships. This sets the tone for a song that is deeply introspective and laden with emotional weight.

The imagery of nature, such as "all the rivers rage" and "nature set on fire," serves as a metaphor for the uncontrollable and often destructive forces within us. These natural elements mirror the protagonist's inner turmoil, emphasizing the difficulty of finding peace and truth amidst chaos. The line "Truth found in the mire" suggests that understanding and clarity often come from wading through the muck of our experiences, highlighting the arduous journey toward self-awareness and acceptance.

The song also touches on themes of nostalgia and the passage of time. Phrases like "Holding to the past" and "Lever on my youth" indicate a longing for simpler times and a struggle to let go of youthful ideals. The haunting repetition of "Uuuuuhu uuuuhu uuuhuu uuuuhuuu" adds a layer of melancholy, reinforcing the sense of loss and yearning. The plea, "Come on Johnny please, won't you speak to me?" could be interpreted as a cry for connection and understanding, further emphasizing the song's exploration of loneliness and the human need for communication and empathy.