Meaning of "No-One But You (Only The Good Die Young)" by Queen

"No-One But You (Only The Good Die Young)" is a poignant song that captures the pain and grief of losing someone who was kind and virtuous. The opening lines, "A hand above the water, An angel reaching for the sky," create imagery of an angelic figure, symbolizing the departed individuals who are no longer with us. The question, "Is it raining in heaven? Do you want us to cry?" suggests a sense of longing and uncertainty, wondering if the departed souls are aware of the sorrow they have left behind.

The lyrics portray a world filled with broken-hearted individuals, as expressed in the line, "Everywhere the broken-hearted, On every lonely avenue." Despite the widespread grief, the song suggests that only the good-hearted ones seem to perish prematurely. The line, "One by one, only the good die young," emphasizes this theme, suggesting that these individuals are metaphorically "flying too close to the sun," taking risks and living life to the fullest.

Throughout the song, there is a sense of admiration for those who have passed away. The line, "Hell, you made a sensation," acknowledges the impact these individuals had on others during their time on Earth. It implies that they made a difference, leaving a lasting impression on those they encountered.

The lyrics also address the confusion and sense of loss that follows the departure of such individuals. The line, "Another tricky situation, I get to drowning in the blues," reveals the speaker's personal struggle in coping with the absence, longing for guidance from the departed soul. The song conveys the idea that life goes on without these individuals, but their memory remains vivid, lamenting, "We'll remember forever."

Towards the end, the lyrics allude to the inevitability of death and the mystery surrounding it. The line, "The sense of your leaving, was it the way it was planned?" suggests a search for understanding and acceptance, expressing the inability to comprehend the reason behind the departed individual's departure. The song concludes with a sense of eternal connection, as the speaker asserts that they will never say goodbye and that the departed soul will always be remembered.