The release of FFTEM was accompanied with a graphic novel of the same title, giving fans the opportunity to understand this chapter of the Amory Wars mythos. While the novel has since then been considered irrelevant -- with Claudio planning to do it over in comic form -- it still helped explain the story a little better. The album's second track, "Always & Never," introduces us to a previously unknown character known simply as 'the Writer.' The album actually follows this Writer more so than it does Claudio Kilgannon or the rest of the characters. That being said, surely it means that the Writer has some prominence if he's the center of this album. Just what is going on? Why shift the focus of the story onto this unknown and vague character? Well, my friends, the mindfuckery has only just begun.

According to comments by Claudio Sanchez and based on what transpires in the book, the song is about the Writer's thoughts on his ex-girlfriend Erica Court, with whom he apparently just broke up with. We're not immediately told what happened in this relationship to cause it to crumble, but it's clear it's got the Writer down.

Compared to earlier songs as "Time Consumer" and "In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3," this song is a rather refreshing and new change to "opener" track of Coheed's records. It's an all acoustic piece in the vein of "IRO-Bot" from SSTB, where the only instrument being played is guitar. It's slow and almost serenade like, with Claudio's voice sounding something close to a lullaby. This is one of the few occasions where he utilizes his lower octave, adding yet another new style and sound to the band's music. The occasional synthesizer is used, but only briefly at the end of the song.

Lyrically, this song is rather crazy. It appears to initially start out as a genuine sort of love letter. The Writer is clearly reflecting on what could have been, and reflecting on how his relationship with Erica could've gone so wrong. It's a very human emotion. However, staying true to the album's namesake, a slight hint of madness creeps up as Claudio utters that final line: "I'm still waiting here, my dear, to kill all of you."

"Always & Never" is short and sweet (in its own way). From just this track alone, it's plain to see that Coheed and Cambria are entering a new stage in their music career, both in terms of musicianship and in the concept.