Meaning of "Absolute" by The Fray

The lyrics of "Absolute" delve into the theme of quiet desperation and longing for something more. The narrator describes a girl who is involved with someone who is not good for her, highlighting the disconnect between what is known and what is done. The line "Everybody knows it but no one tries to stop it" suggests a sense of apathy or resignation towards the situation. The girl barely knows the person she is with, but she hopes that if he could see inside her, he would understand her true self. This longing for connection and understanding is further emphasized in the lines "Quiet but I'm sure there is something here, tell me everything 'cause I want to hear." The use of repetition in these lines emphasizes the narrator's desire to uncover the truth of their situation.

The second verse brings in imagery of a kiss and references to being a dancer and a sailor. The kiss represents a moment of anticipation and possibility, waiting for something significant to happen. The girl's dream of being a dancer contrasts with the sailor on her partner's wall, who represents a life of constant change and new experiences. The lyrics suggest a tension between stability and adventure, and the line "Yet man was born to trouble like sparks fly upwards innocent" hints at the inherent struggles in life.

The final verse brings a sense of reflection and nostalgia. The mention of "40 years come and gone" implies the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life. The line "All we are in photographs will never be taken" suggests that the fleeting moments of life cannot be captured or preserved completely. In the end, the narrator still feels that there is something more to discover and longs for the person they are addressing to share everything with them.

Overall, "Absolute" explores themes of longing, desperation, and the search for connection amidst the complexities of life. The song raises questions about the nature of relationships and the pursuit of something meaningful.