Meaning of "All My Friends" by Dermot Kennedy

The lyrics of "All My Friends" by Dermot Kennedy delve into the memories and lessons learned from a past summer love. The song begins with the reminiscence of a thief who took everything the narrator had given for the person they loved. Despite the pain caused by the end of the relationship, the song emphasizes that it is not a sorrowful song but rather a song that cherishes the love that was once shared.

The lyrics highlight the lessons learned from this summer love. The narrator discovers that beauty is not something that can be kept or possessed, but rather something to appreciate in the moment. They also realize that stories have demons and that they won't let their past experiences with love hinder their future relationships.

The song also delves into the dynamics of the relationship. The narrator acknowledges that whenever their former partner reaches out, whether in anger or sadness, they will always be there to answer the call. The imagery of anger being compared to the seething sea enhances the intensity of the emotions involved.

Throughout the song, there is a theme of longing and hope. The lyrics express a desire to see friends again on a summer night, suggesting a longing for reconnection and meaningful relationships. It reflects on the importance of friendship and the hope of meeting again in the future.

The second verse introduces the perspective of the narrator looking up at the moon, indicating a shift in their mindset or perspective. They reflect on how they used to feel childlike and lost in the beauty of the moon, but now it no longer affects them in the same way. This could symbolize a personal growth or a change in priorities.

The final part of the song talks about the struggle of letting go. The lyrics describe the smell of rain and the presence of streetlights, creating a somber atmosphere. The narrator refers to love as a lantern in the snow, something bright and illuminating in the darkness. But the person they loved finds it hard to let go, fearing the unknown and the possible negative consequences of moving on. The narrator, however, wants to reassure them that they will shine together and overcome their fears, but acknowledges the difficulty in conveying this message.

Overall, the lyrics of "All My Friends" reflect on the bittersweet memories and lessons learned from a past summer love, while also emphasizing the importance of friendship and the struggle of letting go.