The meaning of Something I Can Never Have by Nine Inch Nails

Something I Can Never Have is a song by British rock band Muse, released in 2001 as part of their album "Origin of Symmetry". The song's lyrics are often interpreted as a reflection on the longing for something that is unattainable or impossible to achieve.

The song's narrative appears to be about a person who has given up on pursuing a romantic relationship with someone they deeply care about. The opening lines, "She's got everything you wanted / But she's never getting what you want", suggest that this person has everything they've ever desired in their partner, but somehow it's not enough to satisfy their own desires.

As the song progresses, Matt Bellamy's soaring vocals convey a sense of resignation and desperation. The chorus, "Something I can never have / Something I can never be", emphasizes the theme of unrequited love and the futility of hoping for something that seems forever out of reach.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of trying to fit into someone else's mold or expectations, with lines like "You're living in a world of your own design" suggesting that this person is attempting to conform to someone else's idealized version of themselves. However, despite their best efforts, they remain unable to achieve the connection they so desperately desire.

Something I Can Never Have has been praised for its sweeping orchestral arrangements and Bellamy's powerful vocals. The song showcases Muse's ability to craft soaring, anthemic rock songs that are both emotionally resonant and musically complex. Despite being a fan favorite, the song remains one of Muse's most underrated tracks, often overshadowed by some of their more popular hits like "Plug In Baby" or "Hysteria".