Only You

Ellie Goulding's song 'Only You' delves into the complex and often contradictory emotions that come with love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that is both a source of deep affection and profound pain. The repeated line, 'Only you can be the aching in my heart, my enemy,' encapsulates this duality. Here, Goulding uses the metaphor of an 'enemy' to describe the person she loves, suggesting that this individual has a unique power to cause her emotional turmoil. This paradox is further emphasized by the imagery of being held in the dark during storms, indicating that this person is both a comfort and a source of distress.

The song also explores themes of vulnerability and submission. The recurring phrase, 'Baby, I'm on my knees,' signifies a sense of pleading and desperation. This line suggests that the speaker feels powerless and is willing to humble herself for the sake of the relationship. The repetition of this phrase throughout the song underscores the intensity of her emotions and the extent to which she is affected by her partner's words and actions. The emptiness she feels when with her partner adds another layer of complexity, indicating that the relationship is not fulfilling despite her deep emotional investment.

Ellie Goulding's ethereal voice and the haunting melody of 'Only You' enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song's structure, with its repetitive lines and haunting refrain, mirrors the cyclical nature of the speaker's emotional experience. The use of animal imagery, such as 'the only animal I couldn't fight,' adds a primal element to the song, suggesting that these emotions are instinctual and uncontrollable. Overall, 'Only You' is a poignant exploration of the conflicting emotions that can arise in a deeply passionate relationship.