Always Late (With Your Kisses)

Song Meaning

The lyrics immediately establish a scene of longing and frustration. The speaker is waiting for affection, specifically "kisses," which are consistently delayed. This isn't just about physical touch; it suggests a broader pattern of emotional or relational tardiness. The central tension revolves around the speaker's patience wearing thin. Phrases like "Won't you come to my arms sweet darling and stay" express a deep desire for presence and commitment, directly clashing with the repeated complaint of being "always late." The poignant question, "How long do you think I can wait," underscores the growing exasperation and the unsustainable nature of this dynamic. The most striking craft element is the insistent repetition. The phrase "Always late (Always late) with your kisses (Always late)" isn't merely stated; it's echoed, almost like a nagging thought or a broken record in the speaker's mind. This relentless vocalization of the problem amplifies the speaker's frustration, making the listener feel the weight of this consistent disappointment. The shift from a plea to a direct challenge – "Why oh why do you want to do me this way" – reveals a deeper hurt, questioning the partner's intent. These lyrics are effective because they tap into a universal feeling of being undervalued or put second. The simple, direct language and the cyclical structure of the complaint make the speaker's weariness palpable. It's a raw expression of love held in limbo, constantly waiting for an affection that arrives, if at all, just a little too late to fully satisfy.