Meaning of "Lily" by The Dodos

The lyrics of "Lily" seem to capture the essence of a relationship that has deteriorated to a point of irreparable damage. The speaker is reflecting on the distance and disconnect that has grown between themselves and their partner, symbolized by phrases like "How did we become this tear?" and "You won't speak, when you do you still don't." There is a sense of longing for closure and understanding, yet the conversation remains unresolved. The repetition of "time against your back" throughout the song suggests a feeling of time slipping away and the urgency to address the issues at hand before it's too late. The speaker's declaration of eternal love juxtaposed with words of disdain reveal a complex and conflicted emotional state, where love and resentment coexist. Ultimately, the lyrics convey a somber reflection on the complexities of relationships, the difficulty of communication, and the weight of unresolved emotions.