Meaning of "One" by Ed Sheeran

"One" by Ed Sheeran explores themes of love, commitment, and the fear of being alone. The song begins with the singer asking the person they love if they turned down another suitor's proposal because they are waiting for the singer. The singer expresses their willingness to wait for the person, not having any plans to leave. They ask if the person would take away their hopes and dreams if they chose someone else, emphasizing the deep connection and reliance on their love. The singer pleads for the person to stay with them, not just as a romantic partner but also as a friend.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the intensity of the singer's emotions. They feel alive and exhilarated when they're with the person they love. The lyrics suggest that being drunk and stumbling home becomes an acceptable state when they are together, indicating a level of carefree happiness. The singer pledges never to leave again because the person they love is the only one for them.

As the song progresses, the singer acknowledges that their friends have moved on to another place to find love, leaving the singer behind. They request that the person they love promises to always remain a friend, recognizing the importance of their presence and companionship beyond just a romantic relationship. The fear of being alone is evident in the lyrics.

The final verse of the song portrays the singer in a vulnerable state. They admit to being drunk and lost, asking for directions home. This vulnerability represents the depths of their emotions and their reliance on the person they love to guide and support them. The mention of listening to sad songs about love and where it goes wrong highlights their anxiety about the potential risks and challenges that love brings.

Overall, "One" explores the fear of being alone, the desire for love and commitment, and the importance of friendship. It conveys the longing for someone to stay by one's side and the emotional depth that love can bring. The song encapsulates the universal themes of love and the human need for connection.