"Matthew" by Hey Violet is a heartfelt and emotional song about the loss of a loved one named Matthew. The lyrics describe the narrator's longing for the person they lost and their struggle to cope with their absence. In the first verse, the song highlights how the world has changed since Matthew's departure. The coffee shop he loved has closed down, and even simple things like cigarettes have become more expensive. The narrator expresses their willingness to go through countless changes if it meant Matthew could still be there with them. They also mention how Matthew's absence feels overwhelming and deafeningly quiet. The chorus reflects the confusion and pain felt by the narrator. They question why Matthew left and can feel the impact of his departure deep within their chest. They plead for Matthew not to go and emphasize how everything he was is deeply embedded in their soul. The second verse reminisces about the happy times the narrator and Matthew shared. They had conversations that lasted for hours and covered a variety of topics. However, the isolation of Matthew's absence has made it difficult for the narrator to remember those conversations, even though they are treasured memories. The pre-chorus and chorus are repeated again, expressing the narrator's desperation for Matthew to stay. They express regret and wonder if they loved him enough and if they could have done more to help him. Despite their inability to save him from his struggles, the narrator promises to keep him in their heart. They question if Matthew will continue to haunt them until their own death, demonstrating the impact he had on their life. Overall, "Matthew" is a poignant song that explores the grief and longing experienced after losing a loved one. It portrays the complex emotions of love, regret, and the enduring connection felt even after someone has gone.
