Meaning of "Late" by Issues

The lyrics of "Late" explore themes of missed opportunities, longing, and the complexities of romantic desires. The narrator wakes up next to someone they have strong feelings for, but they know that the circumstances are not ideal. They mention staring past others to focus on this person, highlighting their intense attraction and desire to be with them. The line "I could never say it like I sing it" suggests that the narrator finds it easier to express their emotions through music rather than verbally, possibly hinting at a fear of rejection or vulnerability.

The repeated phrase "You could be my mistake" indicates that the narrator understands that pursuing a relationship with this person may not be wise or beneficial in the long run. They acknowledge that the attraction is strong and that they want it, but they also recognize that they cannot stay in this situation. The line "And when the sun comes up again and we're gone, we'll remember every beautiful thing that went wrong" further emphasizes the idea of missed opportunities and the regret that may come from not acting on their desires.

The statement "That it's a little too late" serves as both a realization and a resignation. It suggests that the timing is off for the narrator to pursue a relationship with this person. Whether it be due to external circumstances, other obligations, or simply missed chances, they understand that they cannot act on their desires.

Overall, the lyrics of "Late" delve into the complexities of longing for someone who may not be the right fit or available. It explores the emotions of desire, regret, and the realization of missed opportunities. The narrator grapples with their feelings, knowing that acting on them would have consequences but also acknowledging the difficulty in suppressing those emotions. It serves as a reflection on the complexities of human desires and the challenges of timing and circumstances in relationships.