Meaning of Never by The Cure

The Cure's song "Never" is a melancholic exploration of a failed romantic relationship. The song delves into the complexities of attempting to meet someone's expectations while simultaneously struggling with one's own limitations and insecurities. Through its introspective lyrics, "Never" presents a profound exploration of themes such as personal growth, self-acceptance, and the limitations of love.One standout lyric that stands out in the song is "She wants so much to please me, all day and every night." This lyric emphasizes the pressure put on individuals in relationships to constantly meet their partner's expectations and be everything they desire. It speaks to the inherent desire to make one's partner happy and the extent to which one would go to fulfill that role. However, this desire to please can become overwhelming and unsustainable, leading to a sense of inadequacy and potentially driving people apart.Another poignant lyric is "I want so much to need her, all night and every day." This lyric encapsulates the longing for emotional connection and attachment to another person. It reflects the human desire for intimacy, both physically and emotionally. However, it also implies a certain dependency on the other person for fulfillment and happiness. This dependency can be burdensome and hinder personal growth, as it places the responsibility of one's happiness solely on the other person.The lines "We don't need to read the stars, we don't need the time for fate" in the chorus highlight a different theme, that of defying fate and not relying on external forces to dictate the course of a relationship. It suggests a rejection of predetermined destinies and the desire to carve one's own path. This theme touches upon the concept of agency and the idea that love should not be predestined or based on external factors, but rather a choice made by individuals.An unexpected theme that can be drawn from the song is the exploration of societal pressure and expectations in relationships. The lyrics, "Trying to be the one for me, trying to be enough for me" speak to the pressure individuals feel to meet societal standards of what a partner should be. It delves into the notion that conforming to these expectations can erode one's identity and sense of self-worth, highlighting the importance of authenticity in relationships.Finally, the repetition of the line "We will never be in love" in the outro of the song infuses a sense of resignation and acceptance. It touches upon the bittersweet realization that sometimes, despite the efforts put into a relationship, it may simply not be meant to be. This line underscores the limits of love and the understanding that not every connection can transform into a deep and lasting love.In summary, The Cure's song "Never" takes listeners on an introspective journey that explores the complexities of relationships and the limitations individuals face. The standout lyrics in the song help develop various unexpected themes, such as the pressure to please, the longing for emotional connection, the rejection of predetermined fate, the societal expectations in relationships, and the acceptance of the limitations of love. Through this introspective exploration, "Never" offers a captivating and thought-provoking reflection on the many intricacies of romantic relationships.