Meaning of "Again And Again" by Keane

In "Again And Again," Keane delves into the complex dynamics of a relationship where words hold little meaning and promises are easily broken. The song opens with the narrator questioning the reality of their experiences, unsure if they were genuine or mere illusions. They contemplate whether they were merely passing through the other person's life as a ghost, clinging onto the remnants of the relationship. The narrator longs for something real, craving a deeper connection and the authenticity of emotions. They are tired of the empty gestures and shallow words that sound reassuring but lack substance. The weight of these superficial promises becomes evident as the narrator acknowledges that no one can truly maintain happiness or sadness for an extended period. The interconnectedness and complexity of emotions are reduced to fleeting moments. Despite the narrator's recognition that their own words are also empty, they feel a sense of detachment, as if they are merely playing with language and watching the other person drown in their own unreliability.

The repetition of certain phrases in the song serves to emphasize the cyclical nature of the relationship and the frustration that comes with it. The chorus, "We say these words again and again, but they still sound the same," reflects the stagnant state of the relationship, where repeated attempts to communicate do not lead to any progress or understanding. The phrase "easy lies" is particularly powerful, highlighting the ease with which promises and reassurances are made without any intention of follow-through.

Towards the end of the song, the narrator reflects on the passage of time spent waiting for a change or resolution in the relationship. They question the authenticity of a promise made to be there in times of fear and loneliness, pondering whether it was just a dream or if it held any truth. Despite the doubts and disappointment, the emotions they once felt remain real and impactful to the narrator. The repetition in the closing lines emphasizes the cyclical nature of their interactions, suggesting that the same patterns of empty communication will likely continue.

Overall, "Again And Again" delves into the disillusionment and frustration that arise from a relationship built on empty words and unfulfilled promises. It explores the gap between what is said and what is felt, highlighting the impact that this disconnect has on the narrator's perception of the relationship.