"Wild Horses" by Girls Aloud is a song about a relationship that has gone sour. The protagonist, Peter, is described as a poor boy who is lost and unsure how to claim his miracle or find his way in life. This could imply that he is struggling with his own identity and purpose. The lyrics suggest that Peter has made mistakes and has lost his pride, possibly mirroring the experiences of his father. Despite the difficulties he has faced, the protagonist is determined not to return to the relationship with the person the song is directed towards. The line "It's taken a long time, but wild horses wouldn't take me back to you" indicates that the protagonist has moved on and has no desire to rekindle the relationship. The song also alludes to the protagonist's attempt to maintain composure and not let their emotions consume them. The lyrics mention trying to sedate and not hate the person, but time reveals the truth and leads the protagonist to feel cold towards the relationship. The suggestion is that the person showed insincerity through fake gestures and kisses. The chorus repeats the line about wild horses not taking the protagonist back to their past relationship, further emphasizing their determination to move on. The lyrics also suggest that the person being addressed should leave town and take their lazy dog with them. This could signify the desire for a complete separation, wanting the person out of their life entirely. The bridge of the song portrays the protagonist as a "crazy fool" who took their time thinking they would be safe. They express regret for losing their head and the meaning of what was said. The lyrics also imply the possibility of bringing the person back home and returning to what they both knew, but it is unclear if this is a genuine desire or a fleeting thought. The lyrics continue to address the person, questioning if they backed a fool and expressing the protagonist's realization of how they were perceived. In the final chorus, the lyrics reiterate the theme of wild horses not bringing the protagonist back to the person. The lines about the town being crazy and full of time for girls feeling strange suggest that the environment they were in may have contributed to the downfall of the relationship. The song concludes with a fading repetition of the chorus, reinforcing the protagonist's resolve to move on. Overall, "Wild Horses" explores themes of lost love, regret, and the decision to let go and move forward. It shows a protagonist who has grown tired of a failed relationship and is determined not to be pulled back into it, symbolized by the imagery of wild horses.
