Melt

Tender's song 'Melt' delves into the complexities of unrequited love and the relentless pursuit of affection. The lyrics convey a sense of inevitability and resignation with the repeated phrase 'What'll be will be,' suggesting a fatalistic view of the relationship's dynamics. The protagonist acknowledges that their partner always gets what they want, highlighting a power imbalance. Despite this, there is a persistent effort to win the partner's love, as seen in the lines 'Baby I try too much' and 'I'll never stop trying.' This persistence, however, is tinged with a sense of futility, as the protagonist often finds themselves 'leaving without your love again.'

The chorus, with its plea 'Let me know if you will ever love me,' underscores the protagonist's desperation for reciprocation. The imagery of bodies melting into one another symbolizes a deep, intimate connection that the protagonist yearns for but struggles to attain. The repeated requests to 'show the way your body should be touched' and 'held' emphasize a longing for physical and emotional closeness. This desire for intimacy is a central theme, reflecting the protagonist's hope that such closeness might eventually lead to the love they seek.

The song also touches on the theme of perseverance in the face of adversity. The lines 'I don't know when to stop' and 'How much further to the top?' illustrate the protagonist's uncertainty and the challenges they face in their pursuit. The metaphor of climbing a steep hill represents the increasing difficulty of their quest for love, yet they continue to strive despite falling behind. This persistence, coupled with the emotional vulnerability expressed throughout the song, paints a poignant picture of unrequited love and the human desire for connection.