Meaning of "I Looked Away" by Derek And The Dominos

The lyrics of "I Looked Away" convey a sense of regret and longing for a love that has been lost. The narrator recounts how he failed to fully appreciate and hold onto the love that was present in his life. The repetition of the phrase "I looked away" highlights the narrator's own blindness to the value of this love until it is too late. The lyrics also suggest that the narrator feels a sense of guilt and conflict due to being involved in a relationship with another man's woman. This moral dilemma adds to his feeling of loneliness and the knowledge that the love he desires is ultimately unattainable. Despite this, the narrator expresses a willingness to continue "sinning" and loving her until his last day, unable to resist the pull of his emotions.

The theme of missed opportunities and regrets is central to the meaning of the song. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding listeners to appreciate and cherish love when it is present in their lives, as it can easily slip away if not valued. The lyrics also touch upon the complexities of love, highlighting the turmoil and conflicting desires that can arise in relationships. The narrator's struggle with his desire for a woman who belongs to someone else speaks to the universal themes of forbidden love and the irresistible pull of desire.

Overall, "I Looked Away" captures the emotional turmoil and self-reflection that accompanies the loss of a love that was not fully appreciated. It serves as a reminder to cherish love and seize opportunities for happiness, as they may not come around again.