If These Sheets Were States

All Time Low's song 'If These Sheets Were States' delves into the emotional turmoil of long-distance relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of loneliness and yearning, as the protagonist finds himself lost in 'empty pillow talk' and isolated in a bed that feels like an island. The metaphor of the bed as an island underscores the sense of separation and solitude, while the 'memory foam' serves as a poignant reminder of the loved one who is no longer physically present.

The chorus introduces a powerful metaphor: 'If these sheets were states and you were miles away, I'd fold them end over end to bring you closer to me.' This imagery captures the desperation and longing to bridge the physical distance between the lovers. The idea of folding sheets to eliminate miles speaks to the desire for closeness and the lengths one would go to feel the presence of their partner. The repeated line 'I'm lost in empty pillow talk again' emphasizes the recurring nature of this loneliness and the emotional void left by the absence of the loved one.

The song also touches on themes of regret and unspoken words, as the room becomes a 'mausoleum filled with relics of regret.' This line suggests that the space once shared with the loved one is now a shrine to missed opportunities and wasted moments. The protagonist's wish for 'one more day' or 'one more way' to express their feelings highlights the importance of communication and the pain of not being able to convey how much the other person means to them. Ultimately, 'If These Sheets Were States' is a poignant exploration of the challenges and emotional struggles of maintaining a long-distance relationship, capturing the essence of longing, regret, and the deep desire for connection.