Without

Years & Years' song 'Without' delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the feeling of being left behind. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who admires another from a distance, recognizing their greatness and unattainability. The lines 'You're the first one, you're the champion / You're the tall one, you are halcyon' suggest a sense of awe and admiration for the person they love, who seems almost otherworldly and out of reach. This sets the stage for the central theme of the song: the pain of loving someone who does not reciprocate those feelings.

The chorus, 'You're in love, in love without me / So close your heart / You'll never find me,' captures the essence of unrequited love. The protagonist acknowledges that the person they love is in love with someone else, leading to a sense of isolation and invisibility. The repeated phrase 'you can hate me now / 'Cause I'll be gone' reflects a mix of resignation and defiance, as the protagonist decides to move on, even though it hurts. This emotional conflict is further emphasized by the line 'And I'll be with you or without,' indicating a lingering attachment despite the decision to leave.

The song also touches on the idea of self-worth and the struggle to let go. The lyrics 'How could I have known you're a universe / Follow the marks you left, feel the undertow' suggest that the protagonist feels overwhelmed by the depth and complexity of the person they love. The imagery of 'shivering into the night' and the hope of 'surviving if we can keep it going' highlight the internal battle between holding on and moving forward. Ultimately, 'Without' is a poignant exploration of the heartache and resilience that come with unrequited love, capturing the bittersweet reality of loving someone who cannot love you back.