The song "Don't Know Why She Came" by John Cale explores themes of heartbreak, loss, and the struggle to move on from a past relationship. The lyrics depict a person who is feeling immense sadness and loneliness after a break-up. The narrator turns on the radio and finds themselves crying as they hear familiar songs that remind them of their ex-partner. They mention how people come and go in their life, but it doesn't make a difference to them. Every day feels monotonous and empty without the presence of their loved one. They express that even though they can still hear their ex-partner's voice, it only deepens their sense of loneliness. The phrase "lonely missionary" may refer to the narrator feeling like they are on a solitary mission to cope with the pain of the break-up. The song suggests that their former lover has found a new way of life, possibly implying that they have moved on and found happiness without the narrator. The realization of this brings a sense of acceptance and peace, and they state that they are no longer sorry for loving them. The lyrics then mention a mysterious woman who came into the picture, but the narrator is unsure about her motives or why she entered their life. This could symbolize a potential love interest or someone who complicated the healing process. Towards the end of the song, the narrator mentions how their ex-partner has lost their voice and is unable to communicate. They express that they no longer care about their ex's struggles and urge them to move on, as it is not worth holding onto the past any longer. The song concludes with the line "Hang on to nothing, then you must go," conveying the idea that it is essential to let go of what is no longer serving them and move forward.
