Meaning of "Young Love" by Mystery Jets

The lyrics of "Young Love" reflect the common experience of encountering someone, however briefly, and feeling an instant and intense connection. The protagonist is captivated by the memory of this person and feels compelled to search for them, going from door to door and scanning crowded streets. The repetition of the line "If I only knew your name" emphasizes the frustration of not knowing how to find this person again. The chorus suggests that the encounter was a single night of passion, highlighting the transitory nature of young love. It is characterized by intensity and emotion, but ultimately leaves the protagonist feeling lost and heartbroken. The reference to the person writing their number on the protagonist's hand symbolizes a fleeting moment that was washed away by the rain, further emphasizing the ephemeral nature of this connection.

The addition of Laura Marling's verse adds another layer to the song. Marling's verse speaks to the commonly held belief that young love rarely lasts. She highlights the immaturity and lack of a past that often characterizes these relationships. The line "You don't need eyes to see if someone's got a heart of glass" suggests that young love can be easily broken or shattered due to its fragility and lack of depth. Marling's lyrics echo the sentiment of the chorus, driving home the idea that young love is fleeting and often leaves a trail of heartache.

Overall, "Young Love" explores the longing, desperation, and heartbreak that can accompany a brief encounter with someone who leaves a lasting impression. It captures the intense emotions and fleeting nature of young love and serves as a reminder that these passionate connections often come with an expiration date.