Background
Alan Jackson’s “A Man Who Never Cries” is a poignant ballad that delves into the complexities of masculinity and the societal expectations placed on men to suppress their emotions. Through heartfelt lyrics and a poignant melody, Jackson explores the internal struggles of a man who has built a façade of stoicism to protect himself from vulnerability.
The song begins with a somber acoustic guitar intro, setting the tone for a reflective and introspective narrative. Jackson’s vocals are delivered with raw emotion, conveying the weight of the protagonist’s experiences. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who has learned to hide his feelings behind a mask of indifference, refusing to allow tears to fall.
The chorus of the song serves as a powerful declaration of the protagonist’s inner turmoil. “I’m a man who never cries,” he sings, emphasizing the societal pressure he feels to maintain a strong and emotionless exterior. However, the underlying vulnerability in his voice hints at the emotional turmoil he is desperately trying to contain.
Throughout the song, Jackson explores the themes of loss, regret, and the fear of emotional exposure. He reflects on past mistakes and the pain of losing loved ones, acknowledging the toll these experiences have taken on his heart. The lyrics evoke a sense of empathy and understanding, as listeners are invited to connect with the protagonist’s struggles.
Video
Lyrics
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I was lucky as a childMama taught us right from wrongAnd how Jesus loves us allThough they barely did get byI never saw them cryThey said when things get roughYou gotta pick yourself upNow, the years have taken meDown a twisted crazy streetAt times I’ve drifted offThe path that I should walkAnd Jesus helped me through some hard timesMy wife and children by my sideI’m not perfect by a long mileNo matter how I tryBut I’ve been blessed enough in my lifeTo make up for any strifeIf you look closely deep in my eyesYou might see a few happy tearsFrom a man who never criesIt’s hard to let my feelings showThe ones I love don’t always knowLike I’m leadin’ my horse blindTo a place that I can’t findBut I know I can’t complainI’ve seen more sun than I have rainWhen I look at where I’ve comeWho I am and what I’ve done, oh I knowAnd Jesus helped me through some hard timesMy wife and children by my sideI’m not perfect by a long mileNo matter how I tryBut I’ve been blessed enough in my lifeTo make up for any strifeIf you look closely deep in my eyesYou might see a few happy tearsFrom a man who never criesJesus helped me through some hard timesMy wife and children by my sideI’m not perfect by a long mileNo matter how I tryBut I’ve been blessed enough in my lifeTo make up for any strifeIf you look closely deep in my eyesYou might see a few happy tearsFrom a man who never criesFrom a man who never criesFrom a man who never cries