Meaning of "Long & Lost" by Florence + The Machine

In "Long & Lost," Florence + The Machine explores themes of distance, lost love, and the desire to return home. The lyrics use vivid imagery to create a sense of being lost, both physically and emotionally. The fog and hollow hills represent a state of confusion and emptiness. The blood running hot and night chills evoke contrasting sensations of passion and fear. Without the love of the person they are addressing, the speaker feels adrift, longing for a connection that seems out of reach.

The repeated questions of whether it is too late to come home reveal a deep longing for reconciliation and forgiveness. The bridges, now described as old stone, symbolize the broken connections between the speaker and their loved one. The city becomes a metaphor for the relationships and memories left behind. The speaker fears that they have become too distant, but they also hope for redemption and understanding.

The desire for solace is expressed in the line, "I need the clouds to cover me, pulling them down, surround me." Seeking refuge in the clouds suggests a desire to be wrapped in a protective barrier, shielded from the pain of being alone. The yearning for companionship and the hope that the other person misses them is evident in the refrain, "So long and lost, are you missing me?"

The final verse brings a glimmer of clarity and resolution. The speaker acknowledges the passage of time and the lack of communication between them and their loved one. They express hope that the person will be waiting for them on the shore, implying a desire to reunite and reconcile. The question of why they returned home remains unanswered, leaving room for interpretation. It could indicate a realization of where they truly belong or a desire to mend the broken bridges.

Overall, "Long & Lost" portrays the universal emotions of longing, regret, and the longing for connection. It explores the complexities of relationships and the desire for forgiveness and understanding. The lyrics are introspective and introspective, evoking a sense of vulnerability and introspection in the listener.