Meaning of "Only You" by Joshua Radin

The lyrics of "Only You" delve into the feeling of longing and yearning for a lost love. The narrator looks out of a window and reflects on a love story that has taken a turn for the worse. They emphasize the importance of connection and communication by asking if the person they long for can hear them. The lyrics convey the feeling of missing someone who has been physically or emotionally distant, but recently returned. The narrator expresses a strong desire to have this person near them, realizing that their love is what they need and crave.

The repetition of the line "All I needed was the love you gave, all I needed for another day, and all I ever knew, Only you" emphasizes the significance of this person in the narrator's life. It suggests that the love they received from this person was not only essential for their well-being but also defined their entire existence. Without this love, the narrator feels incomplete and unsatisfied.

The lyrics further explore the confusion and complexity the narrator feels. Mentioning that thinking of the person's name feels like a game, they highlight the mind's attempts to escape from the pain of missing them. However, as the narrator listens to their own words, they come to realize that it is becoming increasingly difficult to stay away from the person they desire. This struggle is intensified by the touch of their hand, which evokes strong emotions and memories for the narrator.

The final lines of the song convey a sense of hopelessness and resignation. The narrator acknowledges that the process of healing and moving on will take a long time. They wonder what belongs to them in this situation and express the exhaustion of not being able to endure any more pain. The mention of a closed door adds a sense of secrecy and intimacy, implying that the relationship may have been kept hidden or played out behind closed doors.

Overall, "Only You" captures the deep yearning and longing for a lost love. It explores the realization that this specific person is the one who truly matters and fills the void in the narrator's life. The lyrics delve into the complexities of love, the struggle to let go, and the overwhelming desire to be with someone who completes them.