The song "Bones" by Editors explores themes of love, forgiveness, and the emotional pain that comes with it. The lyrics speak to someone who is consistently late, possibly metaphorically symbolizing their inability to fully commit or arrive at a certain emotional state. The protagonist of the song confesses that despite the constant lateness and disappointments, they are willing to forgive the person every time. They long for a retreat, a moment of solace, and ask the person to meet them by the quayside (a dock or pier), perhaps seeking a peaceful resolution to their relationship. The lyrics suggest that the love experienced should be worth the pain endured, as well as questioning if the person's eyes are being intentionally captivating for the protagonist. The face of the person in their hands represents everything they need, showing a deep emotional connection. The song also mentions a system put in place to protect them, possibly alluding to societal or personal barriers that prevent the relationship from progressing. However, the protagonist is willing to extend a lifeline to the other person, indicating their desire to save the relationship despite the challenges. The repeated mention of "bones, starved of flesh" signifies a feeling of emptiness or longing within a heart filled with love. This emphasizes the emotional pain inflicted upon the protagonist, as their love might not be reciprocated or fully embraced by the other person. In the end, the lyrics convey a sense of longing and observation, as the protagonist watches the person's eyes showing off. This suggests that despite the difficulties, they are still captivated by the other person's presence and look for an explanation for their behavior. Overall, "Bones" depicts the complexities of love, forgiveness, and the struggle to maintain a relationship despite the pain and challenges that may arise.
