Meaning of "Believe in Me" by ATB

The lyrics of "Believe in Me" convey a sense of nostalgia and longing for a past lover. The opening lines, "It's been sometime since '97, When you chose to sail away," set the stage for a reflection on a relationship that had once held great significance. The line "take this seat and stay forever" suggests a desire for the person to re-enter the singer's life and stay by their side. The uncertainty of time is emphasized when the singer admits, "can't tell the date," conveying a sense of longing that transcends the constraints of time.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea that the person has been doing well since their departure, with the singer stating, "Lately I am sure you are doing well, Though I don't know how that feels." This line reveals a void in the singer's understanding of the person's current life and conveys a longing to reconnect and share in their experiences once again.

The chorus, "Believe In Me, after all, Believe in me, and the end becomes, There's a world behind these walls that I just need to see, Believe in me," becomes a plea for the person to have faith in the singer and the possibility of rekindling their connection. The phrase "the end becomes" suggests that by believing in the singer, a new beginning can be achieved. The mention of "world behind these walls" alludes to the idea that the past events and the barriers that have been built between them can be overcome if the person simply believes.

The repetition of the phrase "Believe in me, after all" reinforces the singer's desire for the person to have faith in their connection, regardless of the time and distance that has passed. The line "Don't you hide behind a smile" suggests that the person may be concealing their true feelings or the impact the separation has had on them, urging them to be vulnerable and honest.

In essence, "Believe in Me" speaks to the universal longing for reconciliation and the hope that love can transcend time and distance. It explores the emotions of nostalgia, longing, and a deep desire for reconnection.