Song Meaning
The lyrics capture a moment of intense reunion and rediscovered affection. The repeated refrain, "It's been a long long time," anchors the sentiment, emphasizing a significant period of absence. The initial verses build a sense of eager anticipation, with the simple, escalating instruction to "Kiss me once / Then kiss me twice / Then kiss me once again." This repetition isn't just about physical affection; it signifies a desire to erase the intervening time and return to a familiar intimacy.
The dominant emotional tension lies in the contrast between the past absence and the overwhelming present joy. The narrator expresses a profound sense of longing, stating, "Haven't felt like this my dear / Since can't remember when." This suggests a feeling that has been dormant for so long it's almost forgotten, now reawakening with surprising force. The emptiness of dreams "without you" further highlights the depth of the previous separation.
The most striking craft element is the use of escalating repetition, both in the kissing instructions and the titular phrase. This builds a palpable sense of urgency and relief. The simple, almost childlike progression of kisses mirrors the uninhibited nature of the rediscovered connection. The phrase "long long time" itself is delivered with a weight that suggests not just duration, but a period of significant emotional drought.
These lyrics resonate because they distill a complex emotional experience into clear, direct actions and declarations. The focus on the physical act of kissing and the simple, powerful statement of time passed creates an immediate and relatable feeling of homecoming. It’s the sound of finally being able to exhale after holding your breath for far too long.