Coming Back

Gotye's song 'Coming Back' delves into the emotional turmoil and unwavering hope experienced during a prolonged separation from a loved one. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator's life in the absence of their partner, marked by a sense of emptiness and longing. The opening lines set the tone, highlighting the unexpected length of the separation and the narrator's steadfast decision to wait for their partner's return. This waiting is not passive but filled with a deep emotional struggle, as the narrator counts the grey days and finds solace in the thought of their loved one.

The imagery in the song is powerful, with references to 'empty glasses' and 'burnt out matches' symbolizing the desolation and stagnation in the narrator's life. The 'curtains drawn on near-full blackness' further emphasizes the darkness and isolation felt during this period. Despite this, there is a glimmer of hope and anticipation, as the narrator believes their partner will come back to 'reclaim this heart you owned.' This line suggests a deep emotional bond and a sense of belonging that the narrator feels can only be restored with their partner's return.

The chorus, with its repeated declaration of 'You're coming back!' serves as a mantra of hope and determination. The narrator's struggle is palpable, as they describe 'clutching at straws' and 'climbing up the walls,' yet they remain resolute in their belief that their partner will return. The song captures the essence of longing, the pain of separation, and the enduring hope that love will prevail. Gotye's emotive delivery and the poignant lyrics create a powerful narrative of love, loss, and the anticipation of reunion.