Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a picture of someone observing a social dynamic, feeling a distinct sense of unease and suspicion. There's a clear sense of something being hidden or obscured, as indicated by the "curtain" that "needs some pulling" because "it's hurting." This imagery suggests a discomfort with a situation that is not being fully revealed, leading the narrator to doubt the sincerity of others' relationships.
The central tension arises from the narrator's perception of a group's negative actions towards an individual, described as "hating and conspiring." The narrator positions themselves as a defender, attempting to understand or counteract this animosity. The repeated questioning of "why you hate her" highlights a lack of clear motive from the antagonists, adding to the narrator's frustration and confusion. The assertion that "it never works" implies a futility in their efforts to harm the target.
The chorus, with its insistent repetition of "Doesn't really matter," creates a powerful ironic contrast with the detailed accusations and defenses presented in the verses. This refrain seems to dismiss the gravity of the situation, perhaps as a coping mechanism or a sarcastic commentary on the perceived pettiness of the conflict. The final lines, "Several different matters / Entirely different matters," further emphasize this disconnect, suggesting that the underlying issues are complex and perhaps not what they appear on the surface, or that the narrator is trying to compartmentalize or downplay the emotional weight.
This lyrical construction is effective because it captures a specific kind of social anxiety and the internal monologue that accompanies it. The juxtaposition of detailed observation and dismissive repetition forces the listener to question the narrator's true feelings and the reality of the situation. The ambiguity of the chorus, in particular, leaves a lingering sense of unresolved tension and the complex emotional labor of navigating perceived social injustice.