"Lover" is a song about the whirlwind of falling in love, and the initial stages of a relationship when everything feels magical and new. The lyrics explore themes of intimacy, commitment, and the desire for a lasting connection. Here's a breakdown of the thoughts and background behind the lyrics:
Verse 1:
- "We could leave the Christmas lights up 'til January": This line sets the stage for a relaxed and carefree atmosphere, suggesting a couple who is comfortable and happy in their own little world. It also hints at a desire to extend the feeling of holiday joy and togetherness.
- "And this is our place, we make the rules": This emphasizes the feeling of ownership and autonomy within their relationship. They are creating their own space and setting their own boundaries, free from outside influence.
- "There's a dazzling haze, a mysterious way about you, dear": This alludes to the initial infatuation and the feeling of being enchanted by the other person. The "dazzling haze" suggests a blurring of reality, where everything about the loved one seems captivating.
- "Have I known you twenty seconds or twenty years?": This expresses the intensity of their connection, as if time itself has been distorted by their love. It suggests a deep bond that feels both brand new and timeless.
Chorus:
- "Can I go where you go? Can we always be this close? Forever and ever": This is the core message of the song - a longing for a lasting and inseparable connection. The repetition of "forever and ever" emphasizes the desire for this love to endure through time.
- "Take me out and take me home, You're my, my, my, my lover": This expresses a deep desire for the other person's presence, both in public and in private. The repetition of "my lover" emphasizes the possessive and intimate nature of their love.
Verse 2:
- "We could let our friends crash in the living room, This is our place, we make the call": This further reinforces the feeling of control and comfort within their relationship. Their home is a space where they can be themselves and welcome others into their shared world.
- "I'm highly suspicious that everyone who sees you wants you": This line playfully acknowledges the allure of the loved one and the jealousy that might arise from it. It also suggests a certain possessiveness that comes with strong love.
- "I've loved you three summers now, honey, but I want 'em all": This conveys a longing for a love that transcends time and extends into the future. The speaker desires to experience every season of love with their partner, emphasizing a commitment to building a lasting relationship.
Bridge:
- "Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand? With every guitar string scar on my hand, I take this magnetic force of a man to be my lover": This is a powerful and theatrical declaration of love, using imagery of music and strength to illustrate the intensity of their feelings.
- "My heart's been borrowed and yours has been blue, All's well that ends well to end up with you": This line suggests that both individuals have experienced past heartbreak but have found solace and healing in each other.
- "Swear to be overdramatic and true to my lover, And you'll save all your dirtiest jokes for me, And at every table, I'll save you a seat, lover": This is a playful and intimate promise of loyalty and commitment. It demonstrates a willingness to be vulnerable and silly with their loved one.
Chorus (Repeat):
- The chorus is repeated to drive home the central theme of the song - the desire for an unwavering and enduring love. The final repetition of "my, my, my, my lover" further emphasizes the deep and unwavering devotion.
Overall, "Lover" portrays a sense of romantic bliss and the excitement of a new relationship. The lyrics celebrate the joy of love and the desire for a life-long connection. The use of imagery, repetition, and heartfelt expressions create a captivating and relatable portrayal of love's early stages.