You Don't Love Me
The Odds & Ends Lyrics

In these lyrics, The Odds & Ends explore the dynamics of a tumultuous and inconsistent relationship. The first verse sets the scene of a heated confrontation, where the singer is unsure how to respond to their partner's behavior. The line "In a blurring of wrong and right" suggests that the boundaries between good and bad are blurred, adding to the confusion.

The chorus reveals the central theme of the song: the partner only expresses love when under the influence of alcohol. The line "You're a devil, now an angel" signifies the sudden change in the partner's mood and behavior, emphasizing their unpredictability. The singer observes how the partner becomes "sudden subtle and solemn" and as quiet as a monk, highlighting the stark contrast between their sober and intoxicated states.

The second verse delves deeper into the singer's feelings. Although they acknowledge that hearing the words "I love you" only when their partner is drunk is not ideal, they believe it's better than nothing. The mention of open and closed doors symbolizes the opportunities and difficulties they have encountered in their relationship. The singer also expresses frustration at not being able to see their partner's true self due to the horrors that lie behind some of the doors, perhaps implying hidden emotional struggles or past traumas.

The bridge highlights the singer's confusion and the mixed signals they receive from their friends. Some advise them to listen and recognize what they are missing in their relationship, suggesting they should embrace love instead of critiquing it. Yet, the partner's drinking habit persists as the only time they express love. The line "like a punk" possibly reflects the singer's dissatisfaction with the situation, feeling disrespected and undervalued.

The final verse questions the authenticity of the partner's expressions of love. The singer wonders if the intense feelings and declarations they receive when the partner is drunk hold any meaning when sobriety returns. The line "Is it over when you're sober, is it junk" exposes the doubt and uncertainty the singer feels about the genuineness of their partner's love.

Overall, "You Don't Love Me" by The Odds & Ends sheds light on the complicated and inconsistent nature of a relationship where love is only expressed when the partner is intoxicated. It explores the frustration, confusion, and insecurity experienced by the singer, offering a glimpse into the emotional turmoil caused by this conditional affection.