The song "How Long" by Ellie Goulding is about a tumultuous and complicated romantic relationship. The lyrics depict the protagonist's struggle to let go of their feelings for someone who is no longer with them physically. The song explores themes of distance, longing, and confusion. The narrator questions their own sanity and wonders how long it will take for them to move on from this person who still occupies their thoughts. They admit to thinking about this person every sundown, implying that their absence is a constant reminder of their presence in the protagonist's mind. The chorus emphasizes the protagonist's longing for this person to return to their life and their bed. They express their desire for the person to be out of their head and back in their bed, indicating a deep emotional and physical connection that they are desperate to rekindle. Despite the difficulties and the distance between them, the protagonist acknowledges that the other person also needs them. They both make excuses to see each other, implying a shared dependency and a love that cannot be easily forgotten. The lyrics also suggest that this relationship is a cycle that they keep repeating, as indicated by the mention of the "last time" and "next time". They are aware that the relationship is not right, but they struggle to say no and break the pattern. Overall, "How Long" portrays the complexity of a love that lingers, even when the relationship is no longer sustainable. It delves into the emotions, longing, and confusion that arise when two people struggle to let go and move on from each other.
