Meaning of "Both of Us" by Yellow Claw

The lyrics of "Both of Us" convey a narrative of a failed romantic relationship, characterized by a longing for the past and the regrets that come with it. The opening lines create an atmosphere of anticipation and nostalgia, comparing the anticipation of the lover's return to the feeling of summer. This sentiment suggests that the relationship was once vibrant and joyful like the warmth and energy of summer, and the narrator yearns for those feelings to resurface.

The refrain "You went bad, I got mad, I got back at you fast, wish I could take it back, is it too late now to take it back?" highlights a cycle of conflict within the relationship. It reveals a reactive response to each other's wrongdoings, where one person's bad behavior triggers anger and retaliation from the other. The remorseful tone indicates a recognition that this approach did not foster a healthy connection.

The admission of personal wrongdoings and the recognition that it "should've been you all along" suggests a sense of self-awareness and accountability for the narrator's role in the relationship's downfall. The line "we always get it wrong, turns out it was both our fault" reflects an acknowledgment that mistakes were made on both sides, and the blame should be shared. This sentiment acknowledges the complexities of relationships, where misunderstandings and miscommunications can often lead to misunderstandings and resentment.

The line "this a battlefield and I'm calling a truce, I got my white flag waving high for you" represents a shift in attitude. It signifies a willingness to let go of the conflicts and games that characterized the relationship and replace them with peace and reconciliation. The metaphorical white flag suggests surrendering to the past grievances and embracing the possibility of moving forward.

In essence, the lyrics of "Both of Us" speak to the universal struggles within relationships. It explores themes of longing, regret, accountability, and the desire to mend broken connections. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's mistakes, sharing the blame, and finding a way to reconcile and rebuild a relationship.