Meaning of "Babylon" by 5 Seconds Of Summer

The lyrics of "Babylon" delve into the emotional journey of a relationship that has reached its breaking point. The opening lines convey a sense of lost intimacy and familiarity. The once-shared space and bond have disintegrated, leaving the narrator feeling erased and distant. This theme of erasure is further emphasized by the phrase "we've been phased," suggesting that their relationship is being gradually phased out and replaced.

The chorus reveals the central conflict of the song. The narrator reflects on their failed attempt to love each other intensely, and the hardest part for them is discerning the right time to let go. This highlights the struggle many face when trying to salvage a dying relationship that no longer brings happiness or fulfillment. The repeated phrase "you wanted to go higher" implies that one of the partners desired more excitement, passion, or growth, but in the process, they burnt out and lost the fire that once fueled their connection.

The use of the word "Babylon" carries symbolic weight throughout the song. Babylon historically represents a civilization that experienced a great rise and subsequent collapse. Here, it serves as a metaphor for the relationship's demise. The chorus emphasizes that the fire that once burned bright, metaphorically representing their love, has now gone out. The dramatic image of watching "it all fall down" suggests the painful process of witnessing the destruction of something that was once beautiful.

Ultimately, "Babylon" explores the complexities of a relationship on the verge of collapse, highlighting the difficulty of knowing when to let go. It grapples with the conflicting emotions of nostalgia for the past and the realization that it is time to move on. The lyrics capture the deep emotional turmoil that accompanies the end of a once-promising love story.