All I Ever Wonder
St. Paul The Broken Bones Lyrics

The lyrics to St. Paul & The Broken Bones' "All I Ever Wonder" confronts the chaos and confusion of trying to navigate through the challenges of the modern world. The verses present a series of conflicting messages, starting with the image of a "velvet fist in the gut" while people sling mud at each other. The line "Jesus found his politics but nobody listens" speaks to the idea that even religious figures or principles, which are supposed to offer guidance and morality, can be ignored or misunderstood. There's a sense of numbness in the face of adversity, as represented by the "rent it will rise but our doctors keep us high" line. The singer acknowledges that everything is "broken" but chooses not to focus on it, almost as a coping mechanism.

The chorus of the song presents a series of questions that don't have straightforward answers. "Is it hell, is it well can anyone even tell? I can't tell what side I am on, I can't tell what's right or wrong. We can't ever just sing one song, love goes hate goes now I am left all alone." It's as if the singer is lost in the midst of a battle where everyone is fighting but nobody knows what they're fighting for or against. The reference to singing one song has a double meaning. On one hand, it can refer to the idea of unity and solidarity, how everyone should be working together for a common cause. On the other hand, it could refer to the idea that people are too quick to take sides, to label things as good or bad, without considering the nuances or complexities of a situation.

Overall, "All I Ever Wonder" captures the frustration and ambiguity of trying to make sense of a world that seems to be constantly shifting and contradictory. The singer is searching for clarity, for guidance, for something to hold onto. But instead they're left feeling adrift and isolated, with nobody to turn to.