Meaning of "Come to Me" by Goo Goo Dolls

"Come to Me" is a love song that showcases the yearning for forgiveness, redemption, and a fresh start in a relationship. The lyrics convey the speaker's desire for their lover to return and rebuild the bond they once shared. The opening lines set the tone of reciprocity and compromise, with the speaker expressing a willingness to be kind and grateful if their partner remains faithful and sweet. The lyrics evoke a sense of tenderness and vulnerability in the repeated line "Come to me my sweetest friend," which suggests that the speaker not only desires their lover's return, but also misses the deep emotional connection they had. The phrase "Can you feel my heart again" indicates a longing to reignite the passion and intimacy that may have been lost. The lines "When we're old and near the end, we'll go home and start again" hint at a long-term commitment and a shared future, where the couple will grow old together and create a new beginning.

The song also touches upon the theme of past mistakes and forgiveness. The verse "I caught you burnin' photographs like that could save you from your past" suggests that the lover may have made mistakes or carried burdens from their previous experiences or relationships. However, the speaker conveys a sense of acceptance and understanding towards these flaws by emphasizing that they do not care about where their lover has been. They urge their partner not to be sad or explain the past, emphasizing a desire to leave it behind and start afresh.

Overall, "Come to Me" is a heartfelt plea for love, forgiveness, and the opportunity to rebuild a relationship. It emphasizes the strength of emotional connection and the willingness to embrace each other's imperfections in order to create a future filled with love and companionship.