Always

Tom Verlaine's song 'Always' delves into the complexities and enduring nature of love amidst life's uncertainties and hardships. The lyrics open with a poignant acknowledgment of how easily things can deteriorate, symbolized by the phrase 'things can rot.' This metaphor suggests the fragility of life and relationships, emphasizing the need for tenderness and care. Verlaine's plea for a 'tender spot' highlights a yearning for emotional connection and support, which he believes is essential to counteract the desolation that can make a person 'go dry' and unable to 'close his eye,' possibly alluding to insomnia or emotional numbness.

The recurring line 'Mysteries come and go, but love remains the best kept secret in town' serves as the song's central theme. It suggests that while life is full of transient and puzzling experiences, love is a constant, albeit elusive, force. This line encapsulates the idea that love, despite being a universal experience, remains deeply personal and often hidden from plain view. Verlaine's use of the word 'secret' implies that love's true essence is something that must be discovered and cherished, rather than taken for granted.

Verlaine also touches on the harsh realities of life, particularly in the lines 'You know these cold-blooded streets, they ain't no place to meet.' This imagery paints a picture of a harsh, unforgiving environment where genuine connections are hard to come by. The 'desperate words' mentioned further underscore the sense of despair and longing that permeates the song. Yet, amidst this bleak backdrop, the enduring nature of love offers a glimmer of hope and solace. Verlaine's 'Always' is a testament to love's resilience and its ability to provide comfort and meaning in an often chaotic world.