How Long Has This Been Going On?

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of someone who, after a childhood experience they describe as hellish, developed a deep-seated aversion to kissing. This early trauma led them to actively avoid any form of romantic or affectionate contact, a decision they now deeply regret. The narrator seems to have lived a life devoid of romantic intimacy, a stark contrast to the joy and wonder they are now discovering. The opening verses establish this past pain with vivid, almost shocking imagery, setting the stage for a profound shift in perspective. The central tension lies in the stark contrast between the narrator's past self and their present awakening. They recall a childhood filled with unwanted physical affection, which they equate to an inferno, leading to a vow to eliminate kissing from their life. This vow, however, has resulted in a profound sense of loss, a feeling of having missed out on significant emotional experiences. The repeated question, "How long has this been going on?" underscores a desperate yearning to understand the duration of this self-imposed emotional drought and the missed opportunities for connection. The lyrics employ a powerful, almost jarring, shift in tone and perspective. The initial description of childhood kisses as hellish is immediately followed by the discovery of a new, heavenly experience. This dramatic pivot is encapsulated in the Columbus metaphor, suggesting a profound revelation and the discovery of a previously unknown world of affection. The escalating count of kisses in the later verses – "Kiss me once, Then once more... Let's make it four" – powerfully illustrates the narrator's enthusiastic embrace of the intimacy they once shunned, highlighting a complete reversal of their former stance. This song resonates because it captures the profound impact of early experiences on adult emotional lives and the possibility of redemption and rediscovery. The narrator's journey from perceived hell to discovered heaven, marked by a newfound appreciation for simple affection, is both relatable and deeply moving. The craft lies in the sharp contrast between the initial trauma and the subsequent joy, making the eventual embrace of kissing feel earned and intensely satisfying. The repeated question serves as a poignant reminder of the years lost to fear and avoidance, amplifying the sweetness of the present moment.