Meaning of "Ansel" by Modest Mouse

The lyrics of "Ansel" by Modest Mouse delve into themes of uncertainty, loss, and the limitations of human knowledge. The narrator recounts a trip to Mexico taken with their father and brother, Ansel. The repetition of the line "You can't know" emphasizes the idea that there are unknown factors and outcomes in life that we have no control over. The narrator's messiness during the trip symbolizes their own flaws and mistakes, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the potential for things to go wrong.

The disappearance of Ansel serves as a metaphor for the unpredictable nature of life's events. The narrator and their sister anxiously watch the news as the search for Ansel is underway, and the line "Yeah, I guess you never know" showcases the narrator's realization that life can take unexpected turns, and that there is a level of uncertainty that we must grapple with.

The lyrics also touch on the concept of time and mortality. The reference to gears around an uncaring sun suggests the cyclical nature of life, and the fact that time moves forward regardless of our individual experiences and struggles. The line "The last time that you ever see another soul/No, you never get to know/No, you don't know" reflects the finality of death and the idea that we can never fully understand another person's experiences or what lies beyond.

In essence, "Ansel" explores the inherent uncertainty and mystery of life, emphasizing that there are limits to our understanding and control. It speaks to the profound sense of loss when someone is gone, and the realization that we can never truly comprehend the complexities of existence.