Never Enough
Thomas Nicholas Band Lyrics

In "Never Enough," the Thomas Nicholas Band delves into the themes of unfulfilled expectations and the inevitable passage of time. The lyrics open with a poignant acknowledgment of change, signified by the line "Nothing gold ever stays," which suggests that ideal moments, often romanticized as "gold," are fleeting and ephemeral. The metaphor of turning a page implies the transition from one chapter to another in a relationship, highlighting the cyclical nature of love and life where both joy and sorrow coexist. The repetition of "the story's the same" reinforces the idea that these patterns are universal, suggesting that the struggles of love are not unique but rather a common human experience.

As the song progresses, the lyrics dive deeper into personal regret and the realization of inadequacy. The phrase "selfish words that you say / Cold as the rain" portrays a significant emotional distance between the singers. It reflects the harshness of communication that can breed misunderstanding and bitterness, leaving an emotional chill in their interactions. The acknowledgment that "you'll never blame / yourself" points to a lack of accountability, indicating that one party holds onto their grievances without recognizing their role in the relationship's downfall. This admission culminates in the line "It's my fault," which signifies a heavy burden of guilt carried by the singer, showcasing a sense of desperation as they grapple with feelings of failure and helplessness.

The powerful refrain, "It was never enough," encapsulates the sense of loss and resignation that permeates the song. Here, the dismantling of the "beautiful life that we painted" serves as a striking metaphor for shattered dreams and the disillusionment that often accompanies relationships that don't live up to their initial promise. The imagery of "colors fading to dust" perfectly embodies the way memories and aspirations can deteriorate over time, transforming vibrant hopes into a monochromatic reality that resembles despair. The singer's decision to "give up" reflects an acceptance of change, acknowledging that holding onto a waning love may be futile. The metaphor of seasonal change hints at the natural cycles of life and love, suggesting an understanding that sometimes relationships must come to an end as part of that inevitable transition.

The latter part of the song evokes a sense of sorrowful resignation intertwined with a wistful acknowledgment of the dreams that remain unfulfilled. The metaphor of "pieces of me / die like the leaves" speaks to the emotional toll of the relationship's dissolution, emphasizing how each small heartbreak contributes to a greater sense of loss. The phrase "always caught in between / life and a dream" suggests a struggle between reality and the ideals we wish to attain, highlighting the dissonance between one's expectations and the harsh truths of existence. The repetition of "we'll never have it all" serves as a stark reminder of limitations in love, emphasizing that perfection is a mirage that often eludes us. In the end, the refrain of "never enough" resonates as a stark echo of longing and disappointment, solidifying the sentiment that sometimes, despite our best efforts, we cannot attain the idyllic vision of love we so desperately desire.