The Grateful Dead's song "Not Fade Away" was originally written and recorded by Buddy Holly and Norman Petty in the late 1950s. However, the Grateful Dead's rendition of the song became one of their signature tunes. The lyrics of "Not Fade Away" describe a passionate and enduring love. The narrator declares their intent to have their love reciprocated, emphasizing that it will not fade away. The Cadillac mentioned in the lyrics symbolizes the narrator's love, which they believe is substantial and significant. The song showcases the intense emotions and deep devotion the narrator feels towards their loved one. They express their desire to be loved day and night, with a love that will never diminish. There is a plea for the love to be genuine and for their partner to truly understand and appreciate their feelings. The repeated refrain of "Not fade away" emphasizes the narrator's determination for their love to remain strong and everlasting. It conveys the idea that their love will endure all obstacles and challenges, refusing to fade away or be forgotten. Overall, "Not Fade Away" captures the essence of love's intensity and the desire for a relationship built on genuine and unwavering affection. It is a song of hope, expressing the belief that true love can withstand the test of time.