Never Saw It Coming

Tigers Jaw's song 'Never Saw It Coming' delves into the profound and often painful lessons learned through the experiences of love and loss. The opening lines, 'I learned a lot about falling in love when I fell out of love,' immediately set the tone for a reflective journey. The juxtaposition of falling in and out of love highlights the duality of relationships, where the end of a romantic connection often brings about a deeper understanding of what love truly means. This line suggests that the most significant insights about love come not from the moments of bliss but from the heartache and separation that follow.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of friendship and solitude. 'I learned a lot about being a friend when I was alone' speaks to the idea that isolation can be a powerful teacher. When one is alone, they have the opportunity to reflect on their actions and relationships, gaining a clearer perspective on what it means to be a true friend. This line underscores the importance of self-awareness and personal growth that can arise from periods of loneliness.

The recurring motif of playing with fire and burning it all down serves as a metaphor for taking risks and facing the consequences. 'Well I played with fire, I burned it all down, I've made more mistakes than you can count' suggests a sense of recklessness and the inevitable fallout that comes with it. This imagery conveys the idea that making mistakes is an integral part of the human experience, and through these errors, one gains valuable life lessons. The repetition of this line emphasizes the weight of these mistakes and the lasting impact they have on the individual's journey.

Overall, 'Never Saw It Coming' by Tigers Jaw is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth. The song's introspective lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the lessons they've learned along the way.