If Only Everything

Queens Of The Stone Age's song 'If Only Everything' delves into the complex interplay between desire and disappointment. The lyrics present a paradox where the singer expresses a desire for things that bring others down, while simultaneously rejecting those same things if they bring him down. This duality is encapsulated in the lines, 'If it gets you down / Well, then I want it / If it gets you down / Well, I don't want it.' This suggests a fascination with the struggles and pains of others, perhaps as a way to feel more alive or to escape one's own ennui.

The repetition of 'If only, if only, if only / If only we're nothing at all' adds a layer of existential contemplation. It hints at the futility of desires and the emptiness that can accompany the pursuit of material or emotional fulfillment. The phrase 'we're nothing at all' could be interpreted as a nihilistic view, suggesting that all these pursuits and desires ultimately lead to nothingness. This aligns with the band's often dark and introspective lyrical themes, exploring the darker sides of human nature and existence.

The song also touches on the unpredictability of life with the metaphor of rolling a wheel, 'So roll the wheel to let it go / And there it goes and where it stops / You never know.' This imagery evokes the idea of fate and chance, emphasizing that despite our desires and efforts, the outcomes are often beyond our control. The line 'If it gets you down / Then just don't blame me' further underscores the theme of personal responsibility and the inevitability of disappointment. The song's raw and gritty musical style complements these themes, creating a powerful and thought-provoking piece that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.