Meaning of "Can't Decide" by Black Flag

"Can't Decide" by Black Flag delves into the internal struggle of the narrator, who grapples with the decision of whether to reveal their true feelings or maintain a façade of happiness. The opening lines portray the indecisiveness and confusion the narrator experiences, unable to determine whether to express their emotions or continue to bury them within. They contemplate going for a drive or visiting a store in hopes of finding something elusive that can fill the void they feel.

The constant wearing of a smile serves as a coping mechanism for the narrator. They believe that anything other than a smile would require them to explain themselves to others who wouldn't understand anyway. This highlights the narrator's belief that opening up about their emotions would be futile, as they perceive a lack of empathy or comprehension from those around them.

The repeated lines underscore the theme of concealment. The narrator states that they conceal their feelings to avoid the need for explanation. They are aware that true understanding of their emotions is unlikely, so they choose to keep their struggles hidden, preferring to deal with them privately rather than risk judgment or misunderstanding.

The lyrics express a sense of frustration and isolation. The narrator wishes they had kept their thoughts to themselves whenever they speak up, implying regret for having expressed their emotions in the past. They feel the need to "spill their guts," but fear the lack of care or concern from others. This sentiment is reinforced by the line "I take a look around, I know that no one else cares." The narrator perceives themselves as alone in their struggles, reinforcing their decision to conceal their emotions.

The inability to decide runs throughout the entire song, reflecting the ongoing internal struggle of the narrator. They cannot determine whether it is better to express their emotions or continue to bury them. The repetition of "I can't decide" emphasizes the emotionally paralyzed state of the narrator, trapped in their own internal battle.

"Can't Decide" captures the complex emotions and inner turmoil experienced by individuals who often find it challenging to express their feelings due to fear of judgment or lack of understanding. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has felt the need to conceal their emotions, leading to a sense of isolation and indecisiveness.