Meaning of "Would?" by Alice In Chains

"Would?" by Alice In Chains delves into the themes of self-reflection, regret, and the desire for absolution. The opening lines, "Know me broken by my master, teach thee on child of love hereafter," suggest that the protagonist feels broken and shaped by painful experiences, possibly referencing a difficult past or external influences. The repetition of the phrase "Into the flood again, same old trip it was back then" implies a cyclical pattern of mistakes and regret, perhaps indicating a recurring behavior or mindset. This repetition also emphasizes the protagonist's feeling of being trapped in a destructive pattern. The line "So I made a big mistake, try to see it once my way" demonstrates an acknowledgement of personal accountability and the desire to be understood or seen from their perspective. The second part of the song introduces the idea of being "wrong" and running too far to return home, leaving someone else alone. This conveys a sense of guilt and uncertainty about the consequences of their actions. The repeated question "If I would, could you?" at the end indicates a plea for forgiveness and a longing to reconcile with the other person. Overall, the lyrics evoke introspection, remorse, and a yearning for redemption and connection.