Missionary
Chris Staples Lyrics

The lyrics to Chris Staples's song "Missionary" speak to the experience of a person who has been instructed to proselytize and convert individuals to their religious beliefs. The singer of the song has been given a clipboard and a map and is sent to a specific location to spread their message. The task they have been given is seemingly simple and free, as the singer notes that it only takes a moment and doesn't cost anything. Despite this, the singer realizes that changing someone's mind is not an easy feat and may not be possible at all.

The second stanza describes the singer's experience after spending a summer repeating memorized lines and encountering resistance and criticism from those they are trying to convert. After their efforts are rejected, the singer looks for solace back at their own apartment, pouring themselves a glass of wine. The repetition of the line "Maybe I can never change your mind" highlights the weight of the task and the frustration of trying to convince someone to believe something they may not be open to.

In the third stanza, the singer reflects on their own achievement of receiving a degree, represented by the "little roll of paper" given to them by the dean. However, the singer realizes over time that the education and knowledge they have gained cannot guarantee the ability to change someone else's mind. The final repetition of "Your mind" emphasizes the theme of the song - the understanding that beliefs are deeply ingrained and cannot be easily swayed, regardless of the effort put in.

Overall, "Missionary" is a poignant reflection on the challenges and limitations of attempting to change someone's beliefs, particularly through the lens of religious proselytization.