"Came And Went" by Gilbert O'Sullivan is a song about a one-sided and unreliable relationship. The narrator describes a time when the person they were involved with came to them for money, and the narrator willingly helped without any hesitation. However, when the narrator needed companionship, the person promised to visit but left quickly without the narrator even realizing they had been there. The lyrics also mention a time when there was a war going on, and again, the person sought comfort and support from the narrator. But once the war was over, they made promises of returning but never followed through. The meaning of the song suggests that the person being referenced consistently takes advantage of the narrator's kindness and loyalty, only seeking their assistance when it benefits them. The narrator feels hurt and realizes the person's unreliable and inconsiderate nature. The second part of the song seems to diverge from the earlier theme, mentioning revenge and the sweetness of it. However, it contrasts revenge with the sweetness of eating peas, not necessarily advocating for seeking revenge but rather highlighting the complexity of human emotions and actions. The song also includes whimsical and surreal imagery, such as the reference to alphabetically ordered peas and the contrast between cold and warm sensations. These elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and storytelling in the song. Ultimately, "Came And Went" touches on themes of unreciprocated love, emotional pain, and the disappointment of unfulfilled promises in a relationship.
