Meaning of "All I Ever Wonder" by St. Paul & The Broken Bones

"All I Ever Wonder" delves into the complexities of contemporary society and the personal struggles that arise from it. The reference to a "velvet fist in the gut" and the imagery of people "slinging mud" illustrate the harshness and divisiveness of the world. The mention of Jesus, finance, and politics highlights the intertwining nature of religion, money, and power in society. However, the lines "But nobody listens" and "I know we're so broken" convey a sense of hopelessness and frustration, suggesting that despite these pressing issues, people remain indifferent and disconnected.

The lyrics also express the singer's internal conflict and confusion. The repetition of "I can't tell what side I'm on" and "I can't tell what's right or wrong" reflects the difficulty of navigating through the polarized and conflicting ideologies present in society. The mention of not being able to focus and questioning if it's "hell" or "well" implies a struggle to find a sense of stability or clarity amidst the chaos and uncertainty.

The line "We can't ever just sing one song" emphasizes the lack of unity or common ground, suggesting that even in the midst of challenges, people struggle to come together or find a collective voice. The shifting between love and hate further exemplifies the volatile nature of relationships and emotions, ultimately leaving the singer feeling alone and isolated.

Overall, "All I Ever Wonder" paints a picture of a society plagued by indifference, division, and confusion. It explores the struggle to find personal and collective meaning in a world filled with brokenness and conflicting ideologies. The lyrics reflect the singer's desire for connection and understanding, while also conveying a sense of despair and isolation.