Meaning of "Sorry" by The Moody Blues

The lyrics of "Sorry" delve into the theme of insincere apologies and the manipulation that can accompany them. The narrator seems to be recounting a series of encounters with individuals who have wronged them, only to offer apologies that ring hollow. The repetition of the phrase "Laid back uptown turnaround people - lie" emphasizes the deceitful nature of these individuals who wear disguises to hide their true intentions. The narrator's decision to hang out their heart to dry for the last time signifies a breaking point, a final stand against those who have consistently caused pain. The use of the word "Sorry" becomes symbolic of a shallow attempt at reconciliation, a word that loses its meaning when repeated without genuine remorse. The imagery of afterglow and feeling a lover's breath upon the skin contrasts sharply with the themes of betrayal and dishonesty present in the rest of the song, highlighting the complexity of human relationships and the difficulty of discerning sincerity from facade.