Meaning of "No One Knows" by Screaming Trees

The lyrics of "No One Knows" by Screaming Trees delve into themes of introspection, self-doubt, and the search for meaning. The repeated refrain of "All the while you've been sleeping, drifting on a wind never blown, tomorrow you'll wake up aching, wondering how, when no one really knows" conveys a sense of detachment and numbness that the narrator experiences. The lines "Don't turn away, you haven't yet awakened, why don't you stay, remember what you said" suggest a longing for connection and a desire for the listener to stay present and engaged. The imagery of "Ten thousand miles, and everyone's mistaken, look where you've been, where every woman's wasted" evokes a feeling of being lost and surrounded by misunderstanding.

The song seems to touch upon the idea of personal growth or awakening, with the lyrics urging the listener not to turn away and to remember their own truths. The line "If there isn't time then you should let it go, into the fire and bring back all you've taken" suggests a letting go of past burdens and mistakes in order to find closure and move forward. The repeated question of "Now what have I done wrong, can't you tell me what have I done wrong, baby tell me what have I done wrong" highlights the narrator's confusion and desire for clarity and understanding.

Overall, "No One Knows" explores the complexities of the human experience and the search for meaning in a world where answers can often feel out of reach. The lyrics convey a sense of longing, frustration, and a yearning for connection and understanding.