The Lovers That Never Were by Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney's voice on this one, co-written with Elvis Costello, sometimes seems a bit strained to me. And I could have done without the background repeats on the final run through the chorus.

One other aspect of the song I don't like is its accusatory tone in the second verse. People often have good reason for not pursuing relationships that have nothing to do with unkindness, even when they love the other person...sometimes because they love the other person.

Ultimately though, I feel that this is a great sad song about a love that never happens.

Favorite line: "I know there will be a parade of unpainted dreams."

The Lovers That Never Were appeared on McCartney's spotty 1993 release, Off the Ground.



Here are the lyrics:

I have always needed somebody girl
But I close the doors to keep out the world
But for you, I would be here all alone locked in a photograph
All of the clocks have run down, lover beware
We'll be the lovers that never were

I hang patiently on every word you send
Will we ever be much more than just friends?
As for you, you sit there playing this game you keep me waiting
When all of the clocks have run down all over the world
We'll be the lovers that never were

For as long as the sun shines in somebody's eyes
I believe in you baby, so don't tell me lies
For as long as the trees throw down blossoms and leaves
I know there will be a parade of unpainted dreams

And I know dear, how much it's going to hurt
If you still refuse to get your hands dirty
So you, you must tell me something, I love you
Say goodbye or anything all of the clocks have run down
Times at an end, if we can't be lovers we'll never be friends

For as long as the sun shines in somebody's eyes
I believe in you baby, so don't tell me lies
For as long as the trees throw down blossoms and leaves
I know there will be a parade of unpainted dreams

Songwriters:
COSTELLO, ELVIS / MCCARTNEY, PAUL

Published by
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group