Meaning of "Just Checkin'" by The Beautiful South

The song "Just Checkin'" delves into themes of loss, longing, and the unrestrained power of memories. The protagonist's actions reveal a deep emotional attachment to her deceased lover, as she continues to visit the pub to see his "guilty face" even though he has been dead for twenty years. The lyrics convey a sense of unresolved emotions and the inability to let go of the past, as she reminisces about the thrill of the chase while acknowledging that death has separated them forever. The repetition of "We're running a check" emphasizes the need to verify and make sense of the love that was abruptly taken away, as well as the finality of death. The song also touches on the idea of deception, both by the deceased lover who could "fool me regularly" and by the widows who pray for the return of what was lost. Overall, "Just Checkin'" is a poignant reflection on the complexities of grief, memory, and the lingering presence of loved ones even after they are gone.