Meaning of "Still On My Mind" by Dido

"Still On My Mind" delves into themes of regret, longing, and the consequences of one's choices. The lyrics depict a protagonist who once craved freedom and independence, desiring to embark on a journey alone. However, they now reflect upon this decision with a sense of remorse and apology. They acknowledge the pain they caused to their former partner, expressing regret for breaking them down, thinking things through, and ultimately running away. The repeated phrase "you're still on my mind" highlights the lingering presence of the ex-lover in the protagonist's thoughts, suggesting that despite their attempts to move on and distance themselves, the memories and emotions associated with the relationship continue to haunt them. The sun symbolizes the clarity and illumination that comes with hindsight, as the protagonist realizes the mistakes they made and the dream they lost when they opened the door to independence. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and desire for reconciliation, but also acknowledge the futility of turning back after having gone too far. Overall, the song captures the bittersweet nature of regret and the enduring impact of past relationships.