Meaning of "Wedding Dress" by Matt Nathanson

The lyrics of "Wedding Dress" by Matt Nathanson convey the intense emotions and desire for connection that can exist in a relationship. The lines "So we lie here in the dark, all the wrong things on fire" suggest that there may be issues or challenges in the relationship, but despite this, the narrator still wants to be with their partner. The repetition of the line "To be with you, just to be with you" emphasizes the depth of this longing.

The mention of the wedding dress signifies commitment and the desire to hold on, even when it becomes difficult. It represents the idea of marriage and the vows to have and to hold, suggesting that the narrator is willing to endure hardships to be with their loved one.

The line "Thought I lost you, I gave you away" hints at a past mistake or moment of insecurity, where the narrator might have doubted the strength of their relationship. However, they seem to realize the value of their partner and express jealousy for the moon, which symbolizes the constancy and ability to move the tides. This implies a longing for stability and the desire to hold onto the person they love.

The repeated phrases "And I want to be somebody else now" and "And I want to be holding you in" reveal a conflict within the narrator. They express a desire to be someone different, perhaps suggesting a desire for personal growth or a fresh start, and yet they also want to be holding and missing their partner. It portrays the complex nature of relationships, where conflicting desires and emotions can coexist.

Overall, "Wedding Dress" explores the profound connection, commitment, and longing that can exist in a challenging relationship. It conveys the emotional struggle to hold on, even at one's worst, and the desire for personal growth while still cherishing the connection with a loved one.