Always

Song Meaning

The lyrics to "Always" immediately confront the fleeting nature of existence, urging a deep, almost visceral engagement with life. Phrases like "Here today, and gone tomorrow" and "Crack the bone, and get to the marrow" demand an intense, present-moment focus. There's a clear call to seize the moment before its inherent "sweetness turns to sour." This opening sets a tone of urgent, existential awareness. The central tension of the piece lies in the insistent repetition of "always" against the backdrop of life's impermanence. The lyrics grapple with what to hold onto and what to release, suggesting a fierce determination to "keep, always" what is valuable, while dismissing what's lost. This creates a powerful paradox: a yearning for enduring meaning and connection in a world defined by its transient nature. The song is packed with bold, often unconventional imperatives that challenge the listener. Directives like "Be the apple arrow and the target" and "Be uncool, yes, be awkward" advocate for authenticity and a willingness to take risks. This isn't about fitting in; it's about embracing vulnerability and seeking truth in unexpected places, pushing against the "obvious place" for answers. A significant shift occurs with the stark, repeated declaration, "I want you," revealing a raw, personal longing that cuts through the earlier philosophical advice. This intense desire then blends with spiritual guidance, urging one to "Get down off your holy cloud" and to "dream out loud." The final image of turning "each song slowly into a prayer" suggests a profound search for eternal connection and meaning, transforming shared moments and artistic expression into something sacred and lasting.