You Were Hated

If you’re not familiar with Genesis, you’ll probably think I had a really bad home life after reading the lyrics to “You Were Hated.” In actuality, the song is about Jacob; his brother, Esau; and a certain Angel who took the hate so he could be loved.

I’ve had a verse and chorus for this one since 2003. On the way home from work one Friday I finished it.

You Were Hated

I waited 14 years for a one night stand
and woke to coyote ugly in the morning -
she didn’t want me, she just needed a man
and I’s the only one around
well they call me deceiver, but who’s this consummated sleeper?
where’s the face of her sister when i reach down to kiss her?
sure Leah’s alright – she’s warm in the night -
she just ain’t what i bargained for

And the story of my life is
digging wells of thirst unabated.
One day they will say i was loved
and you were hated

I remember i was just a child wishing my daddy would smile
without holding something in.
He’d say, “I don’t understand. Your brother’s such a man.
Why can’t you be a little more like him?”
Well I tried in my own way, but in the end i couldn’t stay
You can please everybody else and never know yourself
But with the bridges I’d burned
Wasn’t sure I’d be returning

And the story of my life is
digging wells of thirst unabated.
One day they will say i was loved
and you were hated

Sometimes the way you don’t know is the way you have to go -
And that can keep you up at night.
I’ve seen angels with wings climbing ladders in dreams
and wondered at their broken flight.
If I was hungry for your touch, i didn’t want this much.
Now i limp to the morning like a man with a story
You have blessed me with the wounds of love
Just so I understand

That though the story of my life is
digging wells of thirst unabated,
one day they will say i was loved
and you were hated

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Feb 15th, 2009 | By Justin Brock | Category: Songs