If You Intend
10,000 Maniacs · Trilogy [2005]
Then open your eyes and don't pretend you're feeling
There's nothing worth believing
God, if you persist you'll die like this
And wither in the midst of your first season
Cut down with no reason
How can you be so near and not see everything?
If you intend to live again
Then take the outstreched hand of the one who needs you
It's been so long, we've missed you
Why do you intend to speed your end?
Lie in the dark and let your limbs grow weaker
Sinking low then deeper
How can you be so near and not see everything?
Feel what might be, see what I see
Again and again and again and again, say you don't
Again and again and again and again, say you don't
You say you don't, but you will
Say, you'll say you don't, but you will
You say you don't, but you will
How can you be so near and not see?
About If You Intend
"If You Intend" is a standout track from the 2005 album Trilogy by the American indie rock band 10,000 Maniacs. Known for their lush, orchestral arrangements and introspective songwriting, the group blends folk, rock, and classical influences to create a rich sonic tapestry. This recording exemplifies their signature style, featuring layered harmonies and a melodic structure that invites deep emotional engagement. The song appears on Trilogy, a collection that showcases the band's evolution and continued commitment to narrative-driven storytelling. Its inclusion in their discography highlights their ability to craft atmospheric soundscapes that resonate with listeners seeking both beauty and vulnerability in their music.