Meaning of "Loyal" by Dave Dobbyn

The meaning of the lyrics in "Loyal" revolves around a relationship that has grown distant, yet still holds loyalty as a valuable virtue. The protagonist admits to having difficulty remembering the last time they expressed gratitude and kept close to the other person. There is an unintentional distance that has developed between them. The longing for more time to brainstorm and the tender love that still exists becomes evident, but these sentiments are overshadowed by the need to walk away and maintain distance. However, the protagonist wants to make it clear that loyalty remains intact by keeping the person in their "greeting card file," showing a desire to remember and acknowledge their existence.

The lyrics also touch upon the complexities of allegiance and the struggles faced in life. The battle and challenges that the protagonist faces lead to the question of where true allegiance lies. With hopes and dreams that sometimes feel too overwhelming to hold onto in a single moment, there is a sense of anxiousness. Despite this, the protagonist urges not to rush love and to embrace the present moment, for history is being made in the here and now.

The repeated refrain of "Call me loyal" signifies the protagonist's willingness to be loyal and deserving of loyalty as well. There is a plea for the other person to acknowledge their loyalty too. The song acknowledges the longevity of the relationship and the belief that if the other person's heart were truly seen, there might be room for change and growth.

Overall, "Loyal" reflects on the difficulties of expressing gratitude, maintaining closeness, and remaining loyal in a relationship that has become distant. It delves into the complexities of allegiance and the challenges faced in life, while emphasizing the importance of loyalty and the desire to hold onto it.