Since We've Been Wrong

The Mars Volta's song "Since We've Been Wrong" delves deep into the emotional aftermath of a fractured relationship. The lyrics are a poignant exploration of regret, confusion, and the lingering pain that follows a breakup. The opening lines, "Do you remember how you wore that dress? It slit my sight beneath the eyelids," evoke a vivid memory of a past moment, suggesting that the speaker is haunted by the vivid recollections of their former partner. This imagery sets the tone for the rest of the song, which is filled with a sense of longing and unresolved feelings.

The recurring refrain, "Since we've been wrong, I've been part awake," highlights the speaker's state of limbo. They are neither fully awake nor fully asleep, symbolizing a life that is stuck in between, unable to move forward. This state of partial awareness reflects the emotional paralysis that often accompanies heartbreak. The line, "You will never, ever know me," underscores the deep sense of disconnection and the realization that the relationship was built on misunderstandings or unfulfilled expectations.

The song also touches on themes of self-discovery and the struggle to find one's identity post-breakup. Lines like "I have become ingrown inside this skin" and "I'll find a way out through those eyelids" suggest a desire to break free from the confines of past emotions and rediscover oneself. The repeated questioning, "Are you still a mess?" indicates that the speaker is still grappling with their own emotional turmoil and is unsure if their former partner has also moved on. The Mars Volta's intricate musical style, characterized by complex rhythms and emotive vocals, amplifies the song's themes, making "Since We've Been Wrong" a powerful reflection on the enduring impact of a broken relationship.