Meaning of "Jealous Lover" by Animal Flag

The lyrics of "Jealous Lover" convey intense emotions of jealousy, impatience, and relational complexities. The narrator first addresses their role as a jealous lover who feels an overwhelming dislike towards their partner. The use of the word "curse" suggests not only anger but also a sense of negativity and emotional torment within the relationship. This portrayal of jealousy highlights the destructive nature of such intense emotions, leading to internal turmoil and a strained connection.

The narrator then switches gears, describing themselves as a patient brother but not a patient son. This line reflects a contrasting dynamic in their relationships, potentially indicating a preference for more distant connections and a struggle with intimacy. It suggests that they may have developed different coping mechanisms for each type of relationship, resulting in a lack of patience and understanding within their relationship with their father.

The following reference to the Lord as a jealous lover introduces a religious dimension to the lyrics. It implies a struggle with faith and the narrator's perception of how higher powers may view their actions. The Lord, like the narrator, paces the floor, indicating a shared restlessness and emotional turmoil. However, the phrase "to her it feels like days" suggests that the Lord's perception of time differs from the narrator's, emphasizing the divine's eternal perspective compared to the finite human experience.

The concluding line, "Love waits," serves as a poignant reflection on the nature of love. It implies that love requires patience and understanding, contrasting with the earlier portrayal of jealousy and impatience within relationships. By acknowledging the need for patience and a willingness to wait, the narrator seems to recognize that love cannot thrive without these qualities. It suggests a call for personal growth and a shift towards healthier and more balanced relationships.