Best For Last
Adele
The Heartache of Unrequited Love in Adele's 'Best For Last'
Adele's 'Best For Last' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that comes with it. The song delves into the feelings of someone who is deeply in love but whose affections are not fully reciprocated. The lyrics express a longing for the beloved to acknowledge and return these deep feelings, to say 'that it's always been me' who has stirred such powerful emotions in them. Adele's powerful voice conveys the pain and hope that coexist in the heart of the protagonist.
The song also touches on the theme of self-respect and the realization that the love interest sees the protagonist as just a 'temporary fix' or a 'filler in the space.' Despite this painful acknowledgment, there is a struggle to let go, as the protagonist is drawn to the very things that cause heartache. The line 'the meaner you treat me, the more eager I am' reflects a common paradox in toxic relationships, where mistreatment paradoxically fuels the desire for affection and validation from the person inflicting the pain.
Ultimately, 'Best For Last' is a narrative of hope against the odds, a desire to be truly seen and loved by the person one cares for the most. It's a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of love, where the heart clings to the hope that one day the beloved will realize that they are meant to be together, saving 'the best for last.' Adele's emotive storytelling through her music often resonates with listeners who have experienced similar situations, making her songs universally relatable.