Keeping You Around

Nothing But Thieves' song "Keeping You Around" delves into the complexities of modern relationships and the struggle for self-identity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship fraught with disillusionment and emotional turmoil. The opening lines, "Your lips want anyone else / Mine taste like everyone else," suggest a sense of dissatisfaction and a lack of uniqueness in the relationship. This sets the tone for a narrative that explores the pain of unfulfilled desires and the difficulty of maintaining a connection in a world where superficial interactions are commonplace.

The chorus, with its poignant lines, "I've got more hope / Of killing war / Or seeing sound / Than I've got / Of keeping you around," underscores the futility the narrator feels in trying to salvage the relationship. This hyperbolic comparison highlights the near-impossibility of achieving harmony and understanding with their partner. The repeated phrase "keeping you around" emphasizes the desperation and hopelessness that pervades the narrator's efforts.

The song also touches on themes of self-reflection and societal pressures. Lines like "Show me / Tell me how a modern human should be" and "When all our friends are so shady?" reflect the confusion and disillusionment that come with trying to navigate modern social dynamics. The mention of a "broken machine" further illustrates the narrator's sense of inadequacy and the struggle to meet societal expectations. The repeated desire to "start over" suggests a longing for a fresh start, free from the baggage of past mistakes and societal judgments.

"Keeping You Around" is a poignant exploration of the emotional complexities of modern love, the struggle for self-identity, and the impact of societal pressures on personal relationships. The song's raw and honest lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of a failing relationship and the quest for self-understanding in a confusing world.