What Could Have Been

Novembers Doom's song "What Could Have Been" delves into the profound sense of loss and the haunting nature of unrealized potential. The lyrics paint a picture of deep emotional scars and the cold, unyielding reality of absence. The recurring theme of dreaming about what could have been suggests a longing for a different outcome, a life that was never lived but is deeply mourned. This sense of loss is compounded by the imagery of empty arms and broken hearts, symbolizing the void left by someone who is no longer there.

The song also touches on the idea of innocence and protection, perhaps hinting at a lost child or a loved one who was vulnerable. The line "We protect pure innocence" suggests a desire to shield what is pure and untainted, but the reality of loss makes this protection impossible. The rain falling could symbolize tears or a cleansing process, but it also underscores the persistent sadness that accompanies such a profound loss. The repetition of the phrase "We'll never know what could have been" serves as a poignant reminder of the unknown possibilities that will forever remain just out of reach.

The metaphor of the great healer being a deceiver adds another layer of complexity to the song. It suggests that time, often considered a healer of wounds, has not brought the expected relief. Instead, it has only deepened the scars, making it hard to find peace or closure. The struggle to understand and carry on without the lost loved one is a central theme, highlighting the enduring impact of their absence. The song captures the essence of grief, the struggle for understanding, and the painful reality of moving forward while carrying the weight of what could have been.