Never Look Back

Slow Club's song "Never Look Back" is a poignant exploration of loss, memory, and the struggle to move forward. The lyrics tell the story of a 'baby brother' who has passed away, leaving a void in the lives of those who loved him. The imagery of trying to 'bring him back to life' and the 'diamonds of the morning' opening his eyes evoke a sense of desperation and hope, only to be met with the harsh reality of his absence. This loss is described as happening 'before you had to worry,' suggesting a life cut tragically short, leaving behind only half-formed memories and unfulfilled potential.

The recurring line, 'But you had to go, but if you'd stayed,' reflects a deep sense of regret and what-ifs. The narrator imagines a different reality where they could have been there to support and hold the hand of their lost loved one. The mention of a 'marching band' playing could symbolize the passage of time and the inevitability of moving forward, even when burdened by grief. The refrain 'we'll never look back' serves as both a resolution and a coping mechanism, a way to honor the past while committing to live in the present.

The song also touches on the idea of memory and identity. The 'baby brother in the picture frame' represents a frozen moment in time, a snapshot of a life that could have been. The line 'we'd shout it out loud' if they knew his name underscores the pain of not fully knowing or remembering the lost loved one, adding another layer of sorrow. Ultimately, "Never Look Back" is a heartfelt ode to the complexities of grief, the importance of memory, and the difficult journey of moving forward without forgetting the past.