Never Recover

The Cardigans' song 'Never Recover' delves into the lingering pain and emotional turmoil that follows a significant loss, particularly in the context of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is trapped in their memories, unable to move past the misery that has become a part of their identity. The repetition of 'That's what you called waste of time' underscores the futility and frustration of waiting for something or someone that may never come, symbolizing the endless cycle of hope and despair.

The song's protagonist seems to be grappling with the idea of a 'hero' who never dies, suggesting that the person they once loved continues to hold a powerful, almost mythical place in their heart. This hero, however, is also a source of pain, as their presence in the protagonist's mind prevents them from finding peace or sleep. The line 'And the hero never dies if the lover hides between the sheets' implies that the memories of love are inescapable, haunting the protagonist in their most vulnerable moments.

The Cardigans use the metaphor of waiting for a valentine to illustrate the endless anticipation and longing that comes with unrequited or lost love. The phrase 'That's what I call life' reflects a resigned acceptance of this state of being, where the protagonist acknowledges that their life is defined by this perpetual waiting and the inability to recover from their past. The song captures the essence of emotional stagnation and the struggle to move forward, resonating with anyone who has experienced the pain of holding on to a love that is no longer there.