Country Feedback Lyrics

Lyric discussion by tarantula33 

Cover art for Country Feedback lyrics by R.E.M.

I see this as the dissolution of a long-time relationship. Obviously one where the hopes for the future are still vivid and difficult to give up, yet utterly confounded by reality. "These clothes.." line I relate to in that, often when relationships are close to an end, people are mean, angry, desperate, dramatic..emotions they wouldn't wear in happier days. It seems like his partner is trying to distance themself (come to me with excuses) and he has tried all sort of angles to rectify this, which ultimately puts the final nails in the coffin as the line between allowing space and having an existing relationship is so thin. I like that you cacn interpret "I need this" as either he needs the relationship, or the person, or he needs to leave the relationship or the person.

I always thought winter rain was wedding ring, and fuck all was fuck off. It is better as fuck off.

I thought it was "wedding ring" too... Now I'm crushed.