The lyrics of "Tell It Like It Is" speak of a sense of yearning and confusion in a relationship, where the singer is left wondering why the other person can't be honest about their feelings and intentions, leading to a sense of loneliness and longing.

Meaning of "Tell It Like It Is" by Graham Coxon

The lyrics of "Tell It Like It Is" depict a relationship marked by uncertainty, with one person seemingly holding back and leaving the singer feeling confused and abandoned. The repeated refrain of "Why can't you tell it like it is" underscores the frustration and desire for clarity in communication. The singer experiences a deep emotional connection with the other person, as reflected in lines like "I never met no-one like you before" and "You treated me like I was brand new before." However, this connection is not reciprocated, leading to feelings of loss and emptiness. The mention of loneliness returning "back through the door" suggests a cycle of emotional highs and lows that the singer is grappling with. Overall, the lyrics convey a poignant reflection on the complexities of relationships, the pain of unfulfilled expectations, and the longing for honesty and connection.