Meaning of "First Love" by The Maccabees

"First Love" explores the complexities of love and relationships. The repetition of the lines "First love, last love, only love, it's only love" suggests that the singer is reflecting on the different experiences and emotions that come with love. The questions "Do you miss home?" and "Do you miss home? And are you cool? Symmetricool?" demonstrate a longing for a sense of belonging and emotional connection.

The following lines, "Let's get married, and tick the boxes, and so she says, oh, let's get married, and take the boxes" hint at societal expectations and the pressure to conform to a conventional idea of love and marriage. The repetition of "Do you want to be alone? Do you wanna be alone?" highlights the fear of loneliness and the desire for companionship, while the line "are you cool? Symmetrical, hypocritical, analytical, so critical?" suggests a struggle to find someone who meets certain standards or expectations.

The lyrics also touch on the imperfections of love and relationships, with the line "Nothing's perfect, and I'm hoping I'll do, do, but I will not do, 'cause nothing's perfect, so I'll have to make do." This conveys a recognition that love and relationships are not flawless, and one must navigate through the imperfections and compromises. The mention of making a mistake and the desire to take it back signifies regret and a willingness to learn from past experiences.

The song's final lines, "Well, I'll make my bed, I'll lie in it, and pillow talk you into it, I'll make my bed, I'll lie in it, entice you with this leopard print, and matching velvet duvet" suggests the willingness to create a comfortable and enticing environment to attract and maintain love and intimacy.

Overall, "First Love" delves into the complexities, longing, societal pressures, imperfections, and willingness to adapt within the realm of love and relationships.