The song "Yesterday" by Gladys Knight & The Pips explores themes of heartbreak, longing for the past, and the impact of a lost love. The lyrics depict a narrator who once believed that their troubles were far away, but now they feel as though they are here to stay. They express a deep longing for the past, for a time when love was easy and simple to play. The protagonist feels a heavy shadow hanging over them, as if the weight of their lost love has suddenly engulfed them. The song suggests that the narrator's significant other has left without any explanation or reason. The narrator questions why they had to go and expresses confusion and remorse, wondering if something they said was wrong. They feel a sense of loss and yearn for the happier times they shared in the past. Overall, "Yesterday" conveys a feeling of heartache and sadness while reflecting on the pain of losing someone dear. It symbolizes the longing for a time when love was effortless and serves as a reflection on the impact of a lost love on an individual's life.