All Or Nothing
Bert Jerred Lyrics

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once again I should know better
than to let this feeling undermine

I read your confession in a letter
sealed with the stamp of one more time

but it's all or nothing with you
and I'm hanging on so don't let go

of every word I whisper
and of these places I go

set your mind upon the steeples
but keep your heart from falling down
and don't look back to see my city
when it's burning to the ground

because it's all or nothing with me
and I'm looking for the halo

from the incandescent light
that shows the places you go

Overall Meaning

In Bert Jerred's song "All or Nothing," the lyrics appear to depict a tumultuous relationship in which the singer acknowledges their tendency to be drawn back to someone they know they should avoid. The opening lines convey a sense of regret, with the singer admitting that they "should know better" than to give in to their feelings. The reference to a letter suggests that there may be some distance between the two individuals, with the writer of the letter confessing to something that has made the singer feel uneasy. However, despite acknowledging that they should be more cautious, the singer admits that they are "hanging on" to every word that their love interest says and everywhere they go - this suggest a strong attachment or infatuation, and that they are willing to take a risk and put it all on the line for this person.

As the song progresses, the lyrics become more metaphorical, with references to "steeples" and "halos." These lines suggest that the two individuals have differing priorities or perspectives, with one striving for something beyond reach ("set your mind upon the steeples") while the other wants to stay grounded ("keep your heart from falling down"). Despite this disparity, the singer still seems hopeful that they will find some common ground, as they seek reassurance through a metaphorical "halo" that will show them the way to their love interest. The final lines carry a tone of resignation, with the singer warning their love interest not to look back at the destruction that they may leave in their wake - this suggests a sense of fear or foreboding, as well as a sense that the singer knows that ending things is probably for the best.

Line by Line Meaning

once again I should know better
I have been in this situation before and I should have learned from it.

than to let this feeling undermine
I should not let my emotions ruin this situation.

I read your confession in a letter
I received a written message from you.

sealed with the stamp of one more time
Indicating that this is not the first time you have done this.

but it's all or nothing with you
You have an 'all or nothing' mentality.

and I'm hanging on so don't let go
I am holding on and do not want to let go.

of every word I whisper
I am saying exactly what I feel.

and of these places I go
I am going to different places and experiencing different things.

set your mind upon the steeples
Focus on reaching for the highest goals possible.

but keep your heart from falling down
Do not let your emotions bring you down.

and don't look back to see my city
Do not dwell on the past when things have changed.