Meaning of "Instead" by Emma Blackery

"Instead" by Emma Blackery delves into the complexities of unrequited love and heartbreak. The speaker is struggling to come to terms with the fact that their ex-partner has seemingly forgotten about them and moved on so easily. The pain of seeing the person they still care for being intimate with others highlights feelings of betrayal and rejection. The lyrics also explore the speaker's internal conflict between wanting their ex to be happy, even if it means being with someone else, and their own deep longing for reconciliation. Despite the strong emotions of hurt and longing, there is a sense of resignation and acceptance that their relationship is over. The repeated refrain of "when you should be kissing me instead" underscores the speaker's desire for a return to the past and a sense of loss at what could have been.