The narrator of the song is longing for an absent loved one and reminiscing about the good times they shared together. Despite attempts to move on, the narrator still waits for their loved one's return. The song ends with a bittersweet sentiment, as the narrator hopes that the memory of their love stays vibrant like the red roses they placed on their loved one's grave.

Meaning of "Roses" by Against The Current

"Roses" portrays the emotions and longing experienced after the end of a relationship or the loss of a loved one. The lyrics reflect the narrator's deep yearning for their absent partner, as they eagerly wait for their return throughout the night. The repetition of the phrase "I miss it all" emphasizes the weight of the relationship's absence, highlighting that the narrator longs for not only the person but also the feelings and experiences they shared. The reference to the "long nights under street lights" and the line "when our hearts were made of gold" speaks to a sense of nostalgia and the memory of youthful love. The narrator feels a deep void without their loved one and struggles to move on despite the encouragement from others. The final verse adds a darker twist as the narrator expresses the hope that the memory of their love remains vibrant, symbolized by the red roses laid on their loved one's grave. This line conveys a mix of bitterness, grief, and a desire for eternal love. Overall, "Roses" explores themes of love, loss, nostalgia, and the struggle to let go of a cherished connection.