The lyrics of "Plain Gold Ring" tell the story of a narrator who is in love with a man who is already committed to someone else, as symbolized by the plain gold ring he wears. The narrator expresses their feelings of longing and heartache, knowing that they will never truly be with the person they love because of this commitment.

Meaning of "Plain Gold Ring" by Kimbra

"Plain Gold Ring" delves into themes of unrequited love, longing, and heartbreak. The plain gold ring serves as a poignant symbol of the man's commitment to another person, emphasizing the narrator's feelings of being unable to truly be with the one they love. The repetition of the lyrics "Plain gold ring on his finger he wore" highlights the permanence and finality of the situation, with the ring acting as a barrier to a potential relationship. The narrator's acceptance of this reality, expressed through lines like "I'm gonna love him till the end of time," showcases the depth of their feelings despite the impossibility of being together. Overall, the song beautifully captures the bittersweet nature of unrequited love and the pain of longing for someone who belongs to another.