Don't Blame Your Daughter (Diamonds)

The Cardigans' song "Don't Blame Your Daughter (Diamonds)" delves into themes of personal responsibility, regret, and the search for meaning. The lyrics suggest a narrative where the protagonist is urged to stop blaming others for their misfortunes and mistakes. The repeated advice to not blame one's daughter, mother, or father underscores the importance of self-accountability. The metaphor of cutting diamonds with a rubber knife poignantly illustrates the futility and frustration of trying to achieve something valuable with inadequate tools or misguided efforts.

The song also touches on the idea of unfulfilled potential and missed opportunities. Lines like "The words you try to say are the ones you should've said" reflect a sense of regret for not having expressed important thoughts or feelings when it mattered. The diamonds in the song symbolize these missed opportunities and the valuable things in life that the protagonist has failed to grasp. The imagery of worthless autographs and empty mattresses further emphasizes the emptiness and lack of fulfillment in the protagonist's life.

In the latter part of the song, there's a shift towards a more hopeful message. The lyrics encourage the protagonist to go out and find the diamonds, suggesting that it's never too late to seek out and achieve what is truly valuable. However, this pursuit must be accompanied by a sense of personal responsibility and a willingness to face one's own shortcomings. The song's blend of melancholy and hope creates a powerful narrative about the human condition, the importance of self-reflection, and the potential for redemption.