The meaning of Ellie Goulding's song "Without Your Love" can be interpreted as a reflection on the end of a relationship and the emotions that come with it. It expresses a sense of longing and the feeling of being lost without the love and companionship of the person they were once with. The lyrics depict the protagonist's realization that they will eventually move on and find their way back home and to independence. The lines "Sooner or later I'll be heading home, Sooner or later I'll be on my own" suggest a journey towards self-discovery and finding their own path. The mention of "June into summer" could symbolize a transition or a time of change, as the protagonist walks, wearing out their shoes and having nothing to lose. This could represent a period of growth and exploration. The repetition of the line "Without your love I'm getting somewhere" emphasizes the theme of discovering oneself outside of the relationship. It implies that despite the pain of being without the person they once loved, the protagonist is still making progress and finding their way forward. The references to the sun, burning ties, and frozen kisses evoke imagery of both warmth and coldness, representing the dichotomy of emotions experienced during a breakup. The realization that they have been waiting for this moment their whole life implies that the protagonist sees the end of the relationship as an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Overall, "Without Your Love" explores the emotions of finding oneself after the end of a relationship and the journey towards personal independence and happiness.
