We could be strangers
Father John Misty Lyrics

The lyrics of "We Could Be Strangers" by Father John Misty explore the complexities and uncertainties of relationships. The first verse begins with a conversation between two people, where one person expresses skepticism about the odds being against the other person. They believe that the person won't break someone's heart. In response, the other person acknowledges that relationships often end, suggesting that it is inevitable that someone will be hurt just by being themselves. This dialogue sets the tone for the song, highlighting the challenges and potential heartbreak that can come from being in a relationship.

The chorus emphasizes the idea of being strangers for a bit longer. The singer suggests that delaying intimate encounters and dealing with emotional problems until the next day might lead to a better outcome. They believe that no one truly benefits from rushing into things or dealing with complications on their own. The line "Save the trysts and tumors" implies that it is better to avoid engaging in passionate but potentially harmful encounters or getting caught up in emotionally draining situations.

In the second verse, one person suggests not rushing back to the other person's place, as they don't have any other plans. The lyrics take a darker turn as they mention bleeding on the freeway, perhaps indicating a metaphorical or literal breakdown in their relationship. Despite this, the person holds onto the other person's hand, potentially symbolizing a desire to remain connected, even in difficult circumstances. The singer expresses regret, stating that they never wanted to disappoint the other person, but at least they will never have the opportunity to do so.

The final repetition of the chorus reinforces the idea of being strangers for a longer period, and the notion that nobody truly knows who anyone else is. This suggests that while we may try to understand others, their true selves often remain a mystery. The song concludes with the repetition of the line "No one's really better off alone," emphasizing the importance of human connection and the difficulties that can arise when navigating relationships.

Overall, "We Could Be Strangers" delves into the uncertainties of relationships, the potential for heartbreak, and the challenges of understanding and connecting with others. It suggests that taking things slowly and being mindful of the emotional complexities involved can lead to better outcomes.