Some Mothers Do Have Them

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of unconventional, perhaps difficult, children, framed by the recurring phrase "Some mothers do have them." It immediately establishes a tone of weary acceptance, suggesting these individuals are not the ideal offspring any parent might wish for. Yet, a subtle shift occurs as the narrator implies a shared understanding with "you and I," hinting that these perceived outcasts are simply misunderstood, possibly due to their solitary pursuits like playing guitar or their struggles in the dark. The initial judgment softens, revealing a deeper empathy for those who don't fit the mold. The central tension lies in the contrast between societal expectations of children and the reality of those who deviate from the norm. The narrator acknowledges these children might seem "like freaks" and spend "a lot of time alone," but the lyrics suggest this isolation is a consequence of their difference, not necessarily a flaw. The phrase "They're all sons ever lose" carries a poignant weight, hinting at a sense of loss or missed opportunities tied to these individuals, perhaps a loss of connection or a premature end to their potential. The most striking element is the evolution of the phrase "Some mothers do have them." Initially presented as a statement of unfortunate circumstance, it transforms into a shared secret between the narrator and their companion. The search for meaning in "liner sleeves" and the reflection that they "took it all too hard" suggest a retrospective understanding of their own past or the past of those they are discussing. The final lines, "But every mother has to disappear," bring a profound sense of finality, linking the fate of these unconventional children to the inevitable departure of their mothers, creating a cyclical narrative of loss and acceptance. Ultimately, these lyrics resonate because they capture the quiet acknowledgment of life's imperfections and the complex bonds formed in shared understanding. The writing moves from a seemingly judgmental observation to a tender, almost melancholic, acceptance of those who are different. The impact comes from the subtle reframing of perceived flaws as unique paths, and the poignant reminder that all relationships, like mothers themselves, eventually fade.