Adore
Dean Lewis
The Tender Longing in Dean Lewis' 'Adore'
Dean Lewis' song 'Adore' captures the essence of youthful infatuation and the tender moments that come with it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night spent in the company of someone special, where every small interaction feels monumental. The repeated imagery of the protagonist standing with his bag hanging off his left arm and kicking stones at parked cars evokes a sense of casual, almost aimless wandering, yet it's clear that these moments are deeply cherished because of the presence of the person he adores.
The chorus reveals the depth of his feelings, as he admits to getting 'drunk off one sip' just to adore the person he's with. This metaphor suggests that even the smallest amount of time or attention from this person is intoxicating and overwhelming. The desire to have the entire street out of town just to be alone with them underscores the intensity of his longing and the need for intimacy. The physical closeness, with his head getting heavy and pressed against their arm, symbolizes a deep emotional connection and comfort.
The song also touches on the protagonist's insecurities and the lengths he goes to just to spend time with the person he adores. He spends all his money on these nights, hoping to be found and noticed. The mention of the girl kicking the gutter in tight shorts and talking to boys highlights the protagonist's jealousy and protectiveness, as he sees himself as her 'right-hand slugger,' ready to defend their connection. 'Adore' beautifully encapsulates the bittersweet nature of young love, where every moment is filled with both joy and a hint of melancholy, driven by the fear of losing the person who means so much.