"Never Was Never Were" by Joshua Burnside is a song that explores themes of identity, introspection, and the passage of time. The lyrics delve into the intricacies of existence and the impact our individual presence or absence can have on the world around us. The song begins with the imagery of city lights and car parks, implying a modern and urban setting. The lines "Holy lights of the high rise" and "Angels in the car park, buried under the tarmac" suggest a contrast between spirituality and the mundane. The protagonist expresses a preference for being behind the curtain, observing life from a distance, and flirting with the transient nature of existence. The chorus introduces the idea of praying for darkness to linger, symbolizing a desire to avoid confrontation with reality. The protagonist acknowledges that they have never been one for darkness, instead choosing to dress in a way that evokes death and pretend to be someone else. This highlights a disconnect between their true self and the persona they project to the world. The lyrics touch upon the significance of ancestry and question the intentions of those who came before. The lines "Our ancestors ringing, a cold call from the beginning" suggest that their actions have consequences, and the protagonist wonders what they were thinking when making certain choices. They speculate that, just like them, maybe one day future generations will also hide from the light and face the consequences of their own actions. Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of dust, symbolizing the transient and impermanent nature of life. The protagonist prays for the dark to linger, acknowledging their discomfort with confronting reality. However, they also question the impact of their absence on the world, wondering how different things would be if they or anyone else had never existed. The song takes a contemplative turn as it imagines a world where deceased pets rest and the ghosts of woodlice roam freely. The absence of chemical interactions and the stillness in nature imply a sense of peace and detachment. The protagonist hopes that even if they are unaware, there is still something that connects them to others and wishes to be found in those moments. Overall, "Never Was Never Were" explores the complexities of human existence, the choices we make, and the consequences they bear. It prompts reflection on one's identity, purpose, and the impact of our actions on the world.
