The song "To Be Loved" by Holly Miranda explores the longing for love and the pain that comes from lost love. The lyrics depict the singer stepping off a plane, expecting to see someone they love waiting for them, but they are not there. This absence signifies the end of a relationship. The singer expresses their desire to find solace or comfort in a place that can distract them from their pain but acknowledges that nothing can ease the hurt they feel. They reflect on the space they needed in the relationship, but now it doesn't matter as it doesn't change the love they had for the person. The chorus emphasizes the singer's yearning for love and to be loved in return. They long for warmth and intimacy, hoping to find someone who can understand and appreciate them. The repetition of the phrase "to love and to be loved" reinforces the central theme of the song. The lyrics mention carrying a torch across the ocean floor, which symbolizes the singer's commitment to carrying the memory and love for the person who is no longer in their life. It represents their determination to hold on to the love they once shared. Towards the end of the song, the lyrics mention "water in the pious man" and taking supper on the stars. This imagery portrays a sense of otherworldliness or an imagined reality where love and connection may exist. It implies that love transcends physical boundaries and can be found in unexpected places or states of being. Overall, "To Be Loved" delves into the emotions of loss, longing, and the universal desire for love and connection. It speaks to the pain of separation but also highlights the enduring hope for finding love again.