The song "F.O.R.E.V.E.R." by James Blake explores themes of love, change, and the passing of time. The lyrics caution against using the word "forever" as it suggests an eternal or unchanging love, which the narrator believes is unrealistic. The lyrics suggest that people change, and therefore cannot be tethered or held down by promises of everlasting love. The line "We live too long to be so loved" suggests that love cannot remain the same over a long period of time, as individuals and circumstances evolve. The song acknowledges that people often believe they are the only ones experiencing certain struggles or emotions. The line "We think we are the only ones" highlights this self-centered perspective. The lyrics talk about not being able to walk the streets as a ghost anymore, suggesting that the narrator has been hiding or avoiding certain experiences or emotions. They may have felt disconnected or detached, but now realize that they can no longer remain as an invisible presence. The song also mentions the protagonist's journey of self-discovery. Each day, they encounter moments that remind them of someone they love. The line "Each one looks more like you than you know" expresses the lingering presence of someone no longer physically present. The lyrics also touch on the idea of beauty being found in temporary pleasures and desires ("Beauty always in the lust"). It suggests that in the past, the person being addressed had a knack for always coming out on top, landing on their feet despite challenges. The narrator reveals that while the person they were addressing was away, they began to develop strong feelings of love for them. The line "While you were away, I started loving you" implies that absence made the narrator realize the depth of their emotions. The song concludes with the narrator reflecting on their ability to remain hidden or ghost-like, perhaps metaphorically suggesting their ability to avoid emotional vulnerability. They also draw attention to the slow and deliberate movements of a killer bee, highlighting the intricate nature of their emotions. The final line expresses their admiration and appreciation for the person they love, emphasizing their wonderful qualities.
