What Shouldn't Be

The song describes the emotional journey of someone who becomes enthralled by a tempting but ultimately destructive relationship. At first, the narrator is captivated by another person, imagining what it would be like to be with them and questioning whether this person is a lifeline or merely a temptation. The lyrics use the metaphor of "forbidden fruit"—a classic symbol of temptation and desire—to express the allure and danger of this connection.

As the song progresses, the narrator realizes that the relationship is an illusion: what seemed sweet and magical is revealed to be empty and harmful ("an empty well," "this cold piece of hell"). The repeated chorus emphasizes a newfound awareness—a "knowledge of truth" that was previously hidden. The narrator recognizes that pursuing this forbidden desire is not worth the pain and loss it brings.

The bridge highlights self-deception and betrayal: the narrator admits to fooling themselves while being flattered by the other, only to be left with "treachery." Ultimately, the song concludes with the narrator rejecting the temptation, understanding that the fleeting pleasure is not worth the suffering it causes.

Overall, the song explores themes of temptation, self-realization, and the painful consequences of chasing desires that are ultimately unattainable or harmful.