Meaning of "Don't Delete the Kisses" by Wolf Alice

The lyrics of "Don't Delete the Kisses" delve into the universal theme of longing for love and the challenges that come with expressing one's feelings. The speaker contemplates the possibility that love may not be meant for them, questioning what if it's not meant for them. This uncertainty and self-doubt prevent the speaker from taking action and expressing their emotions directly. Instead, they resort to typing messages they know they'll never send and rewriting old excuses, ultimately erasing any traces of vulnerability.

The narrator's crippling overthinking and fear become obstacles that inhibit them from fully embracing the potential for love. They feel trapped within their own thoughts, constantly second-guessing themselves and questioning their worthiness of love. The mention of the gossip's eye suggests a fear of judgment and scrutiny, adding to the hesitation and shyness experienced by the speaker.

Despite their desire to pursue a romantic connection, the speaker remains too scared to take action. The fear of rejection and the uncertainty of the other person's interest hold them back. The reference to the night-bus symbolizes missed opportunities and the passage of time. As the doors close, so do the chances for a potential connection, and the speaker is left regretting their inability to express their true feelings.

As time passes and the person is no longer within reach, the speaker's infatuation grows. They find themselves thinking about the person constantly, even adopting their jokes and pretending they are their own. This longing and loss of self-control highlight the intensity of the speaker's attraction. They want to shout their feelings to the world, desperate to make their admiration known.

Despite their previous hesitations, the speaker begins to embrace the idea of love and the vulnerability it entails. They acknowledge their romantic clichés and accept that these feelings are genuine and true. When they catch eyes with the person at a party, they finally take the leap and make a move, suggesting a newfound confidence and willingness to seize the opportunity for love.

The lyrics conclude with a sense of affirmation and destiny. The speaker believes that they and the other person were meant to be in love. They find comfort and acceptance in this realization, acknowledging that things don't change and they still have an inherent desire to be with this person.