Vetiver is an American folk band headed by songwriter Andy Cabic and often … Read Full Bio ↴Vetiver is an American folk band headed by songwriter Andy Cabic and often joined by Devendra Banhart, cellist Alissa Anderson, and violinist Jim Gaylord. They released their debut album Vetiver in 2004 on the small indie folk label DiCristina. Since the album's release Vetiver has toured extensively, opening for and collaborating with Devendra Banhart and Joanna Newsom. Before moving to San Francisco Cabic was a member of the North Carolina indie rock band The Raymond Brake who released some records on the now-defunct Simple Machines label. The band is named after the grass, vetiver. Their music has been described as 'surreal', 'lullingly pleasant', 'tender and accessible' and 'quirky and warm'.

Maureen
Vetiver Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

If you need, Maureen, I'll recount you all the ways that I mean to be true.
Though my eyes wonder why, my heart keeps inside the reasons why I'm free with you.

Nobody wants to see trouble where none should be.
My Maureen, don't dream that I could ever be leaving you.

You were saved by doubt and you needed an out to help you get through the day
I may offer you sense but it's love you miss and my talking just gets in the way.

Nobody wants to hear farewells ring in their ear.
My Maureen, don't dream that I could ever be leaving you.

Overall Meaning

The song "Maureen" by Vetiver is a heartfelt showcase of loyalty towards a troubled lover, Maureen. The opening lyric states "If you need, Maureen, I'll recount you all the ways that I mean to be true," emphasizing the commitment from the singer's side. This loyalty is further reinforced with the line "Nobody wants to see trouble where none should be," as the singer stands firm against any doubt or suspicion.

The chorus repeats the line "My Maureen, don't dream that I could ever be leaving you," to underline the fact that the singer will always be there for Maureen, despite her doubts and need for a way out. The lyrics suggest that Maureen is swayed by the singer's rational explanations but ultimately craves love, something the singer is willing to offer in addition to sense. The song culminates with "Nobody wants to hear farewells ring in their ear," demonstrating the intimacy and tenderness existing in the relationship, and the vow to protect it.

One could argue that "Maureen" is a poignant portrayal of a human relationship characterized by patience, faithfulness, and understanding. It is significant because it accepts the reality that people have their demons and unwavering support can aid them in overcoming it.

Line by Line Meaning

If you need, Maureen, I'll recount you all the ways that I mean to be true.
I am willing to list down all the things I do to show my loyalty to you, Maureen.

Though my eyes wonder why, my heart keeps inside the reasons why I'm free with you.
I have my doubts about our relationship, but my heart feels that there is a strong bond between us that allows me to be myself when I'm with you, Maureen.

Nobody wants to see trouble where none should be.
Everyone prefers to avoid unnecessary problems in their lives.

My Maureen, don't dream that I could ever be leaving you.
Please don't worry or have doubts that I will leave you, Maureen.

You were saved by doubt and you needed an out to help you get through the day
Your doubts about our relationship provided you with an excuse to cope with the challenges of life, Maureen.

I may offer you sense but it's love you miss and my talking just gets in the way.
I might give you logical advice, but what you really desire is an emotional connection, and sometimes my talking interferes with that, Maureen.

Nobody wants to hear farewells ring in their ear.
No one wants to hear a sad goodbye.

My Maureen, don't dream that I could ever be leaving you.
Please be assured that I won't abandon or leave you, Maureen.

Nobody wants to hear farewells ring in their ear.
No one wants to hear a sad goodbye.

My Maureen, don't dream that I could ever be leaving you.
Please be assured that I won't abandon or leave you, Maureen.

Contributed by Landon M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

TRACKS