Meaning of Shouldn't Matter But It Does - John Mayer
John Mayer's composition, "Shouldn't Matter But It Does," unfolds as a poignant narrative that delves into themes of regret, introspection, and the emotional toll of a fractured relationship. The lyrics navigate the realm of should-haves and could-haves, expressing a profound lament for unfulfilled potential and unresolved emotions. Mayer embarks on an introspective exploration, commencing with the acknowledgment of missed opportunities, as elucidated in the lines, "Shoulda been open, Shoulda done more, Shoulda learned a lesson from the year before." These verses lay the groundwork for a contemplative journey through the intricate landscapes of love and self-awareness.
The recurrent motif of the road rolling on forever serves as a poignant metaphor, symbolizing the inexorable passage of time and the inevitable distance that accrues between individuals. The line, "And the years keep pulling us apart," encapsulates the enduring impact of time on relationships, emphasizing the palpable sense of loss and the intangible essence that slipped away.
Mayer reflects on the aftermath of the relationship, expressing a lingering wonder about the nature of the lost connection. The lines, "We lost something, I still wonder what it was, It shouldn't matter, Shouldn't matter, but it does," convey a poignant sense of resignation. This acknowledgment recognizes that the significance of the past relationship persists, notwithstanding the rational understanding that it should no longer exert its influence.
The second verse amplifies the emotional narrative, focusing on the partner's actions that held the potential to alter the trajectory of the relationship. The stark contrast between what should have been and the harsh reality of a missed opportunity is palpable in lines such as "You shoulda just broken, You shoulda come clean, You shoulda been sad instead of being so f*ing mean."** The use of explicit language underscores the raw emotion and highlights the impact of unkind actions on the narrator.
The third verse delves into the intricate web of conflicting emotions—anger, the reluctance to let go, and the cathartic use of music as a medium for expression. Mayer confesses to feelings that, by rational standards, should no longer persist, indicating a profound internal struggle with the process of moving on. The lines, "I shouldn't be angry, I shouldn't hold on, I shouldn't leave you messages in every little song," unveil the ongoing internal conflict and the inherent difficulty of severing emotional ties.
The song's conclusion brings forth a poignant acknowledgment of shared responsibility for the relationship's demise. The refrain, "If it's on someone, then I blame the both of us, It shouldn't matter, Shouldn't matter, but it does," encapsulates the acceptance of mutual culpability. It underscores the enduring impact of a connection that defies the rational expectation of emotional detachment.
In essence, John Mayer's "Shouldn't Matter But It Does" paints a vivid and emotionally charged portrait of the aftermath of a relationship. The song skillfully navigates the intricate complexities of emotions, regret, and the enduring echoes of love. It encapsulates the universal experience of grappling with the haunting specter of what could have been and the enduring emotional weight of past connections that, despite rational understanding, persistently matter.
