Meaning of "Broken Promise Ring" by The Ataris

The lyrics of "Broken Promise Ring" by The Ataris explore the complexities of unrequited love and longing for someone who is already involved with someone else. The protagonist wrestles with their emotions, torn between their desire for the person they love and the realization that pursuing this love is futile. The repeated refrain of "Until next time that he goes away" reveals a sense of resignation and the willingness to settle for whatever moments of connection may be possible when the other person's relationship is on hold. The internal conflict of wanting someone they can't have is a universal experience that the lyrics capture poignantly, reflecting the bittersweet nature of unattainable love.