Meaning of "This Love" by Ryan Adams

The song "This Love" delves into the complexities of love, highlighting how it can be both good and bad, back from the dead, and ultimately returning when least expected. The singer expresses the pain of losing someone they deeply care about, feeling adrift as if on a sinking ship. Despite this, there is a sense of hope and resilience in the lyrics as the love in question always manages to find its way back. The repeated refrain of "This love came back to me" illustrates the cyclical nature of relationships, how they can leave permanent marks even in the darkest of times, yet still hold the power to return and bring light. The imagery of a lantern burning for only one person and the bittersweet memories of a departed loved one reflect the deep emotional impact love can have on an individual. The song captures the universal experience of love's complexities, its ability to both heal and hurt, but ultimately leave a lasting impression.