Song Meaning

The lyrics open with a raw, reflective apology, as the speaker laments not having expressed their feelings sooner. There's a palpable sense of regret over "missed opportunities" and a longing for a different past. Yet, this wistful tone quickly grounds itself in an undeniable truth. The central tension here lies between the speaker's self-admitted past failings – going out "alone to run my selfish race" and not being there "to ease your ails" – and the unwavering presence of the other person. It's a candid acknowledgment of imperfection, suggesting a relationship that has endured despite personal shortcomings and uncommunicated feelings. The repeated refrain, "It's always been you," acts as a powerful emotional anchor, cutting through the speaker's "hazy" memories of "dates and places." This insistent repetition, especially the extended "always, always, always, always you," emphasizes a singular, undeniable focus. The imagery of "years melt away like butter in the sun" further highlights how time blurs details, yet this core connection remains crystal clear. Ultimately, these lyrics are effective because they don't romanticize a flawless past. Instead, they present a deeply human narrative of regret and enduring devotion. The speaker's journey from past apologies to a firm declaration of future choice – "don't need to guess who I will choose" – makes the ultimate affirmation of "It's always been you" feel incredibly earned and profoundly impactful.