Meaning of "Legend" by Twenty One Pilots

The meaning behind the lyrics of "Legend" revolves around the theme of regret, lost opportunities, and the importance of cherishing special relationships. The song speaks to the feeling of realizing the significance of someone after they are gone, whether physically or emotionally. It reflects on the regret of not fully appreciating and valuing the relationship when the person was alive and present. The use of the phrase "classic ones" suggests that the person being referred to was someone special, unique, and beloved.

The narrator expresses a longing for the person to know how much they were admired and missed. They regret not taking the time to visit and connect with them, indicating a deep sense of guilt. The line "When your eyes did not know me, like I know you" reveals the pain of witnessing someone lose recognition or memory due to illness or other circumstances. The narrator wishes for the person to know that they were cherished and remembered.

The repetition of the phrase "You're a legend in my own mind, my middle name, my goodbye" highlights the personal significance of this person to the narrator. The phrase "my middle name" suggests that the person is an intrinsic part of the narrator's identity, indicative of the impact they had on their life. "My goodbye" conveys a sense of finality and sadness, emphasizing that the person is no longer present.

The final lines of the song, "I look forward to having a lunch with you again," indicate a longing for reconciliation or reunion. It shows a desire to make amends, spend quality time together, and reconnect on a deeper level. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and a yearning for the opportunity to make things right.

In essence, "Legend" explores the regret and longing that can arise when we fail to fully appreciate the people who are significant to us. It serves as a reminder to cherish relationships and make the most of the time we have with loved ones because once they are gone, we may be left with remorse and a longing for what could have been.