The song "August" by Honors is about reflecting on a past relationship and the emotions that arise from it. The lyrics suggest that the singer wasn't initially looking for a romantic connection, but upon meeting the person in August, they were instantly captivated. The line "Things, they could be different now, I promise" indicates a desire for change or a second chance in the relationship. The singer feels a strong sense of honesty and openness when they are with this person. The chorus reveals that the singer's life has revolved around this person, acknowledging that there may have been others in their life, but it is always this person who holds the highest place in their heart ("it's always been you who wears the crown"). The lyrics also touch on the theme of nostalgia and wondering what could have been. The line "When I think what could we have ended up like, up like, and I try" expresses the singer's thoughts about the potential future that they missed out on with this person. They contemplate whether the other person also thinks about what could have been. The verse reveals that the singer knew the relationship wouldn't last forever, yet they were still hopeful and clung to the moments they shared. The mention of carving the other person's name inside their dreams symbolizes how deeply ingrained they are in the singer's thoughts and subconscious. The lyrics continue to explore the dynamic of the relationship, emphasizing that it was different from anything else the singer has experienced. They also acknowledge the pain and heartache that comes with love, taking responsibility for their part in whatever went wrong. Overall, the song "August" conveys a longing for a lost love, the emotions that linger even after the relationship ends, and the desire to understand how the other person feels. It portrays a bittersweet reflection on the past and the hope for a different outcome, all while observing from the external perspective as the singer looks back on the relationship.
