Meaning of "And You My Love" by Chris Rea

The lyrics of "And You My Love" by Chris Rea explore the internal turmoil and guilt experienced by the narrator. The song begins with the admission that the narrator cannot sleep, possibly suggesting a restless mind filled with remorse and regret. The line "I may not ever" indicates the depth of their struggle, suggesting that they may never find peace again. The reference to "the sins of the past" implies that the narrator has committed wrongs in their life, and now they are facing the consequences of their actions. These consequences are personified as they "sit down together" outside the narrator's window and door. This imagery emphasizes the inescapable nature of their past, as it seems to haunt them even in their own sanctuary.

The narrator then directly addresses their love, expressing that they are the reason behind it all. The repetition of "you my love, my sweet, sweet love" emphasizes the significance of their relationship and suggests that their love is both a source of joy and pain for the narrator. They acknowledge the innocence of their love interest, but find it haunting. This could be due to the contrast between their own guilt and mistakes and the purity and goodness represented by their love. The line "the most fatal of charms" implies that their love has a profound influence, and while it may not intend harm, it has a destructive impact on the narrator's emotional state.

The song takes a reflective turn as the narrator wonders if they have done something wrong in the past. They acknowledge a sense of accountability, admitting that on a "dark and distant day" they must have made a terrible choice or committed some wrongdoing. This realization adds to their feelings of guilt and the belief that they must suffer tonight as a result. The repetition of "you my love" reaffirms that their love is the driving force behind their emotional turmoil and payment for their past actions.

Overall, "And You My Love" delves into the inner conflict of someone grappling with the consequences of their past mistakes and the impact it has on their present state of being. The lyrics suggest a sense of responsibility and guilt, intertwined with a complex love that brings both joy and pain. It serves as a poignant reminder that our actions have consequences, and that sometimes love can expose us to our deepest vulnerabilities.