Meaning of "Not Again" by Staind

The lyrics of "Not Again" by Staind delve into the complexities of a deteriorating relationship. The opening lines, "Do you feel like you're falling? / You've taken this step" highlight a sense of vulnerability and uncertainty, as if the speaker is unsure of the path they are on. The line "In front of you, is further from the truth" suggests a disconnect from reality, where the truth remains elusive. This could reflect a situation where both individuals in the relationship are unable to see eye to eye and consistently misunderstand each other.

The repeated phrase "And you fall apart in front of me again" emphasizes the repetitive nature of the relationship's breakdown. It implies that despite previous attempts, the same patterns keep repeating, ultimately leading to a sense of frustration and disappointment.

The lines "Denial isn’t the way to forgiveness / You always swore that I was wrong" highlight the harmful role denial plays in seeking forgiveness and finding resolution. It suggests that one or both individuals in the relationship refuse to acknowledge their mistakes or take responsibility. This denial perpetuates a cycle where forgiveness becomes an unattainable goal, further deepening the divide between them.

The repeated chorus of "Not again" serves as a rallying cry, expressing the speaker's refusal to continue accepting this dynamic. It carries a sense of exhaustion and weariness, as well as a desire for change and genuine connection.

The mention of being fed "crow" symbolizes being made to swallow one's pride and accept something unpleasant. It suggests that the speaker feels manipulated or deceived, forced to endure something distasteful and unjust. The line "What an intricate web you're weaving" further reinforces this sense of manipulation, hinting at a complex network of lies and deceit within the relationship.

The repetition of the word "Again" at the end of each verse and towards the conclusion of the song underscores the cyclical nature of the relationship's struggles. It suggests that despite the hope for resolution, the same patterns continue to repeat, trapping the individuals in an endless loop of frustration and disappointment.