Meaning of "Come Back and Stay" by Paul Young

The lyrics of "Come Back and Stay" convey the heartfelt longing and desperation of someone who is deeply missing a loved one who has left them. The narrator's yearning is evident from the beginning, as they admit to fantasizing about the person being with them, unable to be satisfied until they are reunited. The repeated plea for the person to come back and the urgency in the lyrics reflect the narrator's impatience and longing to have their loved one by their side again.

The chorus, which asks the person to "come back and stay for good this time," reveals the narrator's desire for a lasting commitment. They long for a love that is not fleeting and temporary but enduring and permanent. The mention of "the book of love" implies that the person was once the author of the narrator's happiness and fulfillment, but their departure has led to a feeling of emptiness and loss.

The reference to ego and loss suggests that the relationship may have been disrupted or ended due to issues of pride or self-centeredness. The narrator hints at these challenges when they mention trying to hide their true feelings and reflect on the person's departure. However, despite these difficulties, the narrator remains hopeful. They believe that if the person returns, they can change their mind and make a true commitment to love them forever.

The lyrics depict a longing that is both emotional and physical. The narrator speaks of opening their eyes and realizing what they had together after the person left, indicating a newfound appreciation for the relationship. They want the person to return not just to satisfy their emotional yearning but also to physically be with them, emphasizing the importance of their presence in their life.

Overall, "Come Back and Stay" captures the universal experience of longing and the desperation for love and connection. The lyrics express the torment and vulnerability of being separated from a loved one, the hope for reconciliation, and the desire for a love that is enduring and permanent.