This. Here and Now. With You

The Cure's song "This. Here and Now. With You" is a poignant exploration of living in the moment and the transformative power of love. The lyrics emphasize the importance of the present, urging the listener to let go of past regrets and future anxieties. The repetition of the phrase "This. Here and Now. With You" serves as a mantra, grounding the listener in the immediacy of the current experience. This focus on the present moment is a recurring theme in The Cure's music, often reflecting a desire to escape the burdens of memory and time.

The song's protagonist pleads not to be asked about their past, indicating a desire to shed old identities and histories. This can be seen as a metaphor for the liberating effect of love, which allows one to be fully present and authentic. The imagery of "black eyes burning into me" and the stripping away of memory suggests an intense, almost purifying connection with the other person. This connection is so powerful that it eclipses all other sensory experiences, creating a sense of timelessness and unity.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of fear and vulnerability. The protagonist is "too scared" and "too tired" to fully embrace the present in the past, but now finds the courage to do so. This shift is facilitated by the presence of the loved one, who provides a safe space for the protagonist to confront and release their fears. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and desperation, as if the protagonist is clinging to this moment as a lifeline. The song ultimately suggests that true fulfillment and peace can only be found in the present moment, free from the shadows of the past and the uncertainties of the future.