Only Love (feat. Nate Ruess)

Anthony Green's song 'Only Love (feat. Nate Ruess)' delves into the intricate and often painful dynamics of love and self-identity. The lyrics reveal a protagonist who is grappling with the expectations and emotional burdens of being someone's 'only love.' The repeated plea to 'keep your distance from me' underscores a desire for space and autonomy, suggesting that the protagonist feels suffocated by the relationship. This sentiment is further emphasized by the acknowledgment of the 'sting of plight,' indicating that the emotional turmoil only exacerbates the situation.

The song is rich with metaphors and imagery that paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's internal struggle. References to 'old ships, battle scars, and silhouettes of skeletons' evoke a sense of past traumas and unresolved issues. The 'new sun once the clouds are gone' symbolizes hope and renewal, yet it is juxtaposed with the reality of what the protagonist has become. This duality reflects the tension between the desire for a fresh start and the weight of past experiences.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of self-discovery and transformation. The protagonist expresses a need for 'a new relief dressed as a new belief,' indicating a yearning for change and a break from their current identity. The lines 'I can try to be anything or anyone other than who I was' highlight the struggle to redefine oneself. The song's conclusion, with its repeated assertion that 'we need no proper ending,' suggests a rejection of conventional resolutions and an acceptance of the ongoing, often messy nature of personal growth and relationships.