Meaning of "Don't Follow" by Alice In Chains

The meaning behind "Don't Follow" can be interpreted as a commentary on the pressures and expectations that society places on individuals. The song suggests that there is a certain freedom that comes with rejecting these expectations and choosing one's own path, even if it results in loneliness and alienation. The repeated lines of "Hey, I ain't never coming home" and "Hey, I'll just wander my own road" convey a sense of independence and a refusal to conform. The speaker prioritizes their own desires and autonomy above all else.

The lyrics also touch upon themes of regret and reflection. The lines "Forgot my woman, lost my friends / Things I've done and where I've been" suggest a sense of remorse and a yearning for the past. The mention of sleeping in sweat with a cold mirror reflects a sense of self-disgust and the realization that time is passing them by. The line "Scared to death, a reason why / Do whatever to get me by" reveals a desperate mindset and a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive, even if it means compromising one's values.

In the final stanza, the speaker pleads to be taken home, symbolizing a desire for emotional and spiritual refuge. This longing for home can be seen as a longing to return to a state of innocence and purity, away from the complexities and hardships of the world. Despite the plea for comfort, the repeated command of "Say goodbye, don't follow" reinforces the protagonist's determination to continue on their own path, regardless of the consequences.

Overall, "Don't Follow" expresses a yearning for individuality and personal freedom, while acknowledging the hardships and isolation that may come with such a choice. It speaks to the universal struggle of finding one's place in the world and the conflict between societal expectations and personal happiness.