If Only

James Arthur's song 'If Only' delves deep into themes of regret, longing, and the desire for redemption. The lyrics reflect a profound sense of introspection, as the narrator grapples with past mistakes and the yearning to turn back time. The repeated phrase 'If only' serves as a poignant reminder of the missed opportunities and the 'royal mistakes' that have led to the current state of emotional turmoil. The song's reflective tone is underscored by the narrator's wish to rekindle a lost friendship and the hope that things could have been different if they had been 'a little less tired and true.'

The metaphor of a 'falling star' to describe a kiss highlights the fleeting and ephemeral nature of relationships, emphasizing the narrator's sense of loss and disillusionment. The imagery of 'prison bars' further conveys a feeling of entrapment, both emotionally and mentally, as the narrator longs for someone to 'pull me safely through.' This sense of confinement is juxtaposed with the desire for freedom and the hope for a fresh start, as seen in the lines 'It's out with the old, I'll be new.' However, the narrator's struggle with inner demons and the battle to overcome personal vices, such as 'drink and drugs,' adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, illustrating the difficulty of achieving true redemption.

The song also touches on themes of loneliness and the human need for connection. The narrator's admission of feeling 'so lonely' and the wish to be a 'shoulder to cry on' for someone else underscores the universal longing for companionship and understanding. The closing lines, 'Now my one place of freedom is sleeping with you,' suggest that despite the turmoil, there is a glimmer of hope and solace found in the presence of a loved one. 'If Only' is a heartfelt exploration of the human condition, capturing the pain of regret and the enduring hope for a better future.