Meaning of "Afire Love" by Ed Sheeran

"Afire Love" is a deeply emotional and poignant song that explores the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease on a person and their loved ones. The song is likely inspired by personal experiences or close observations of someone Ed Sheeran knows. The lyrics convey the sudden and drastic change brought upon by the illness, as demonstrated by the line "And then the devil took your memory." The loss of memory is equated with falling to one's death and the hope that the person finds peace in heaven.

The singer expresses their sadness and confusion as they witness their loved one's deterioration, as indicated by the line "And my family is one again, stapled together with the strangers and the friend." This highlights the disconnect caused by the disease, as the person they once knew becomes a stranger. The use of the color black throughout the song emphasizes mourning and grief, with the singer appearing in a black suit and tie, standing in the rain.

Despite the pain, the song also contains moments of warmth and longing. The lyrics emphasize the desire to hold onto cherished memories, with the line "Darling hold me in your arms the way you did last night." The imagery of light symbolizes love and hope, with the singer wanting to be wrapped in it. The reference to open lips and shutting them together suggests a desire for one last kiss or moment of connection with their loved one.

Through the guidance of the father figure in the song, the singer is reminded that the person they have lost is not at fault for not recognizing them. This reassurance is reminiscent of the support and understanding that family members provide during difficult times. The repetition of "Hallelujah" and the unity of the family coming together to sing it at the end of the song conveys a message of love, strength, and collective mourning.