Meaning of "Why" by Annie Lennox

The lyrics of "Why" delve into the emotional journey of the protagonist, who is grappling with feelings of remorse and the desire to make amends for past transgressions. They express a deep longing for understanding and forgiveness from the person they've hurt. The repetition of the word "Why" emphasizes the desperation and frustration of the protagonist's attempts to comprehend the situation and find resolution.

The lyrics also shed light on the protagonist's struggle with self-reflection and self-doubt. They question themselves, wondering why they keep making the same mistakes and why they haven't learned from their past errors. There is a sense of self-awareness in the acknowledgment of their own flaws and the desire to avoid repeating them.

The lines "That's why it hurts so bad to hear the words, That keep on falling from your mouth" reveal the pain caused by the words of the person they've hurt. The protagonist is sensitive to the impact of the other person's words and finds it difficult to bear the weight of those words falling continuously upon them. This highlights the power and significance of effective communication and the effects of hurtful words in a relationship.

The mention of a sinking boat and going down to the water's edge symbolizes the deteriorating state of the relationship. Despite recognizing the problems, the protagonist expresses frustration at the other person's inability to see the relationship's impending downfall or their own contribution to it.

The final verses of the song emphasize the unseen emotions and thoughts that the protagonist has kept hidden. There is an element of sadness and resignation in the acknowledgment of unspoken words, unfulfilled dreams, and unexpressed emotions. The mention of tears and fear reveals the internal struggles that the protagonist has faced throughout the relationship, with these unvoiced fears eventually leading to a lack of understanding between the two individuals involved.

In essence, "Why" is a heartfelt exploration of remorse, self-reflection, and the challenges of communication within a deteriorating relationship. It highlights the pain and longing for understanding, while also acknowledging the weight of unexpressed emotions and the impact of hurtful words.