The narrator is expressing their pain from the hurtful things said to them, but they reassure themselves that they will be alright and they should not lose faith. They talk about the strangeness of their current situation and the feeling of banging on a locked door. They reflect on being alone and how some dreams eventually fade away and die. Despite their longing, they continue to be locked out, losing in a lover's game and hurting forever. However, they find solace in the symphony of love and the feeling it brings.

Meaning of "Banging on the Door" by Simple Minds

The lyrics of "Banging on the Door" seem to explore the emotional turmoil that accompanies a troubled relationship. The narrator acknowledges the pain inflicted by hurtful words but tries to maintain hope and faith that things will improve. The image of banging on a locked door represents the frustration and inability to reach their loved one or reconnect with the happiness that they once shared. This locked door metaphor can also symbolize the emotional barriers that have been erected within the relationship, hindering any reconciliation. The feeling of being alone adds to their despair, emphasizing the deep longing they have for their lover's presence.

The mention of dreams growing old and dying suggests the fading hope and the eventual demise of their shared dreams and aspirations. It signifies the disappointment and loss experienced when a relationship fails to live up to its initial promise. The repeated idea of losing in a lover's game underscores the theme of heartbreak and the feeling of being on the losing side in their relationship. Despite any perceived victories, such as winning on the one track, the pain and hurt continue to persist, leading to a sense of perpetual suffering.

Amidst the despair, the reference to love as a symphony conveys a sense of beauty and transcendence. The narrator finds solace in the all-encompassing nature of love, where it permeates every part of their being. This symphony of love serves as a source of comfort and reminds them of the transformative power of love, even in the face of pain and adversity. It encapsulates the complex emotions and experiences that love brings - both the joy and the sorrow.

Overall, "Banging on the Door" delves into the struggles and complexities of a troubled relationship. It examines the pain of hurtful words, the frustration of being locked out emotionally, and the longing for connection. It also highlights the resilience and hope that can be found in love, even amidst the heartbreak and perpetual hurt.