Meaning of "Jealous Again" by Black Flag

"Jealous Again" by Black Flag delves into the tumultuous dynamics of a relationship affected by possessiveness and jealousy. The lyrics depict the narrator's frustrations with their partner's constant suspicion and lack of trust. The lines "You're jealous again, No, she's just a friend" highlight the partner's irrational jealousy and inability to believe that the narrator can have platonic relationships outside of the romantic one. This results in the narrator feeling suffocated and unable to do anything without facing accusations and being yelled at. The repetition of the phrase "Why can't I do anything without being yelled at?" emphasizes the narrator's exasperation and the repetitive nature of these confrontations.

The chorus, "Say I'll never gonna leave ya, No, I'll never leave ya, Not the end, No, it's not the end," reveals the narrator's commitment to the relationship despite the difficulties they face. However, this commitment seems to create a double-edged sword. In the verse, the lyrics "I won't beat you up, I won't push you around, 'Cause if I do, the cops will get me for doing it" suggest that the narrator's frustration with their partner's jealousy has reached a boiling point, but they restrain themselves from acting out physically due to the potential legal consequences they would face.

The bridge of the song showcases the narrator's longing for freedom and enjoyment outside of their relationship. The lines "I wanna go and have some fun, Go where the action is, Who the hell are you to tell me who my friends are" express a strong desire for independence and the narrator's resentment towards their partner's attempt to control their social connections. It reflects the narrator's frustration with their partner's possessiveness and the belief that they have the right to dictate the narrator's social life.

Overall, "Jealous Again" delves into the toxic aspects of a relationship overshadowed by jealousy, possessiveness, and control. It showcases the narrator's longing for independence, their frustration with their partner's lack of trust, and their internal struggle to maintain their commitment to the relationship despite these difficulties.