Meaning of "All We Know" by Paramore

The lyrics of "All We Know" by Paramore delve into the tumultuous emotions of a failed relationship. The song portrays the band members' attempts to make sense of the situation despite their inability to comprehend why the other person has left. The phrase "We've tried so hard to understand, but we can't" conveys their frustration in grappling with the sudden departure. Holding the world out in their hands symbolizes the level of effort they had invested in the relationship, only to have it all come crashing down. The lines "Now we can follow you back home, but we won't" capture their decision to not chase after the person who left, potentially suggesting a desire for self-preservation and a refusal to let themselves be hurt further.

The chorus, "all we know is falling, it falls, and remember, 'cause I know that we won't forget at all," emphasizes the recurring theme of the relationship's downfall. The use of the word "falling" not only represents the emotional collapse of the relationship but also reflects the band's album title, "All We Know Is Falling." This repetition reinforces the lasting impact of the breakup, highlighting the importance of remembering the pain and how it has shaped their experiences.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of unspoken words and unmet expectations. The lines "You never, you never said, this wasn't what you wanted, was it? Was it?" expose the underlying confusion and betrayal felt by the band members. They question whether the other person's true desires were never expressed, leaving them in a state of disillusionment. The repetition of the phrase "this isn't what you wanted" further emphasizes their disappointment and highlights the contrast between their perception of the relationship and the reality of its failure.

Ultimately, "All We Know" captures the raw emotions experienced during a failed relationship. It explores the pain of trying to comprehend a breakup, the struggle to let go, and the lasting impact it leaves on individuals. The lyrics portray a journey of acceptance and reflection, as the band members come to terms with the fact that their memories of the relationship will always be a part of them, even though they won't forget the pain.