Meaning of "Up All Night" by Alex Clare

The lyrics of "Up All Night" by Alex Clare revolve around a casual relationship or fling that the narrator is engaging in. The song starts with the narrator waking up in someone else's bed, which they imply is something they were waiting for. This suggests that the narrator enjoys the excitement and thrill of these encounters, but they also acknowledge the careless nature of their actions. They mention that the person they were with saw them sneaking out the door, indicating that their relationship is not public or openly acknowledged.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the repetitive nature of their encounters, with the narrator stating that they "go on and on and on and on" without knowing where they will end up in the morning. This reflects the lack of commitment or direction in their relationship, as they are uncertain about its future. The line "no, she don't know what we do in our spare time" suggests that the narrator and their partner keep their activities a secret, possibly due to being involved with other people or simply wanting to maintain a casual arrangement.

The lyrics also convey a sense of regret or dissatisfaction on the part of the narrator. They mention wasting time and watching their youth slip away, indicating a desire for something more meaningful or fulfilling. The line "surely is a crime" suggests that they recognize the negative impact of their actions and the consequences of their choices.

The song ends with the narrator wanting to escape the reality of their situation by sleeping all day until the sun sets. This can be seen as a way to avoid dealing with the emotions and complications that come with their casual relationship. Overall, "Up All Night" portrays a bittersweet and potentially destructive dynamic, where the narrator finds temporary pleasure but remains unfulfilled and uncertain about the future.