Meaning of "Leaving Today" by The Divine Comedy

The lyrics of "Leaving Today" explore themes of sacrifice, difficult decisions, and the pain of leaving someone behind. The song captures the internal struggle of the narrator, who is torn between their love for someone and their desire to pursue their own path. The opening lines suggest that the narrator is abruptly awakened from their sleep, possibly symbolizing the sudden realization that they have to make a choice. The absence of light and the imagery of an old clock convey a sense of darkness or despair, contrasting with the optimism and vitality often associated with new beginnings.

The plea of the partner, expressed through the words "Release me let me go, I love you more than you could know, All I can do is promise to come home to you," reveals their deep affection and unwillingness to let go. They offer reassurance and a promise to return, trying to convince the narrator to stay. However, despite their love, the narrator feels compelled to leave. The repetition of the phrase "I'm leaving today" emphasizes their determination and perhaps a certain level of resignation, as if they have made up their mind despite the emotional pain it causes.

The city's awakening symbolizes the world outside of the intimate relationship. The dreams that "fizzle out like raindrops racing down the glass" represent the hopes and aspirations of both the narrator and their partner. The raindrops blur the street-lamps, suggesting that the dreams may become obscured or forgotten as they travel further away. This imagery conveys a sense of loss and the ephemeral nature of dreams in the face of reality.

Ultimately, "Leaving Today" conveys the conflicting emotions of love and ambition, the difficulty of making sacrifices, and the pain of saying goodbye. The lyrics capture the complexities of human relationships and the internal struggles we face when torn between personal aspirations and the desire to hold onto something or someone we deeply care about.