Song meaning of Never Here by Elastica

The lyrics of the song "Never Here" by Elastica convey a message of disillusionment and disappointment in a past relationship. The song explores the narrator's experience of being infatuated with someone who ultimately proved to be emotionally distant and uninvolved.

In the first verse, the narrator describes how the person they were involved with made everyone else seem "insane" and "tame" in comparison. This suggests that the intensity of their connection initially overshadowed any potential flaws. However, as the relationship progresses, the narrator realizes that their partner is not fully present, symbolized by the line "you were never really here." This realization creates a sense of betrayal and disappointment.

The chorus further highlights the narrator's feelings of being at odds with their partner, as their plans and priorities clash. The line "rhymes that didn't scan" may symbolize a lack of compatibility or a failure to understand each other. The mention of lending records and an ear showcases the expectation of mutual support and emotional exchange, which ultimately fails to materialize.

In the final verse, the narrator reflects on the disintegration of their connection, acknowledging that the initial intense feelings have faded. The phrase "going through the motions" implies that the relationship lost its authenticity and became mechanistic before ultimately dissolving. The repetition of the line "you were never really here" emphasizes the disappointment and the realization that the person they were committed to was never fully present.

Overall, "Never Here" explores the theme of unfulfilled expectations and the disappointment that comes from investing in a relationship where one person is not truly engaged. Ultimately, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of authenticity and emotional presence in relationships.