Fiction (feat. Tom Odell)
Kygo
The Heartache of Long-Distance Love in 'Fiction'
Kygo's song 'Fiction,' featuring Tom Odell, delves into the emotional turmoil of a long-distance relationship. The lyrics poignantly capture the frustration and sadness that come with loving someone who is physically distant. The repeated calls and declarations of love, 'You call me all the time / You tell me, ooh baby, yeah, you're mine,' highlight the constant communication that keeps the relationship alive, yet also underscores the pain of separation. The smiles and affection shared through digital means are cherished, but they are not enough to bridge the physical gap, as expressed in 'I like it / But it's so many miles.'
The chorus, 'I can't take just a fictional you / It's making me sad / Can't take just a picture of you / It's making me mad,' reveals the core struggle of the song. The protagonist is grappling with the inadequacy of virtual interactions and the longing for a tangible presence. The 'fictional you' and 'picture of you' symbolize the incomplete and unsatisfying nature of a relationship maintained through screens and imagination. This emotional conflict is further emphasized by the lines, 'I draw you in my mind / Adore you and your imaginary eyes,' where the protagonist's mental image of their partner starts to blur, indicating the strain of maintaining a connection without physical closeness.
The song's melancholic tone is a reflection of the universal experience of missing someone deeply. The lyrics, 'I know it's only a weekend or two / That I can't get past,' suggest that even short periods of separation can feel insurmountable when love is involved. Kygo's signature melodic production, combined with Tom Odell's emotive vocals, creates a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of the complexities and heartache of long-distance love. The song resonates with anyone who has felt the pain of being away from a loved one, making it a poignant anthem for those enduring similar struggles.