Meaning of "Temporary One" by Fleetwood Mac

"Temporary One" is a song that beautifully captures the feelings of longing and missing someone. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning for the presence of a loved one who is physically separated from the speaker. The repeated question "What are you doing?" highlights the speaker's preoccupation with the other person's activities and creates a vivid image of longing. The mention of the river and the sea that divide them symbolizes the physical and emotional distance between the two individuals. Despite this separation, the lyrics emphasize that the obstacles are temporary, suggesting that there is hope for reconnection.

The mention of Soho, a vibrant and bustling neighborhood, adds a touch of urban imagery to the song, contrasting with the emotional yearning expressed by the speaker. It suggests that the person they miss might be immersed in their own world, possibly distracted by the vibrant life around them. The contrast between the speaker's desire for connection and the other person's apparent busyness in their own world creates a bittersweet tone throughout the song.

Overall, the lyrics of "Temporary One" convey the universal experience of missing someone and the longing for their presence in one's life. Through the imagery of the river, sea, and a bridge, the lyrics suggest that the obstacles keeping the two individuals apart are not insurmountable and that they will eventually be reunited. The song captures the yearning and hopeful optimism in the face of separation, leaving listeners with a sense of longing for their own connections to be restored.