Lover, You Should've Come Over

Nothing But Thieves' rendition of 'Lover, You Should've Come Over' is a poignant exploration of love, regret, and longing. The song opens with a vivid image of rain falling on funeral mourners, setting a somber tone that permeates the entire piece. This imagery symbolizes the protagonist's mourning for a lost relationship, as he reflects on his inability to keep love from slipping away. The rain filling the mourners' shoes can be seen as a metaphor for the overwhelming sadness and the inescapable nature of his grief.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's internal struggle, feeling 'too young to keep good love from going wrong' yet 'too old to just break free and run.' This dichotomy highlights his sense of being trapped between youthful naivety and the harsh realities of adult life. The repeated questioning of 'where are you tonight?' and the admission of being 'broken down and hungry for your love' underscore his deep sense of loss and yearning. The song captures the universal experience of realizing too late the value of what one had, and the pain of knowing it might be irretrievable.

The chorus, 'Lover, you should've come over, 'cause it's not too late,' is a desperate plea for reconciliation. The protagonist's room, described as lonely with an open window letting the rain in, mirrors his inner desolation. The recurring line 'it's never over' emphasizes the enduring nature of his love and regret. He offers everything—his kingdom, riches, blood—for just a moment of the past's sweetness, illustrating the depth of his sorrow and longing. The song concludes with a resigned acknowledgment of his mistakes, yet still clinging to the hope that it's 'not too late' for redemption and reunion.