The song "Upside" by James is about a person who is working and living away from their loved one. The lyrics convey feelings of longing, missing, and the ups and downs of being apart. The song starts by sending seasonal greetings from nowhere, indicating that the person is away from home and possibly in a place unfamiliar to them. They are working and playing, but still reminisce about the moment they had to leave their loved one. The repetition of "yesterday, yesterday" emphasizes the longing for the past and the desire to be reunited. The person travels through different towns, seas, and mountains for work, alluding to a job that may not always be readily available. They mention the responsibility of being a provider, noting that their heart is entrusted to their loved one's care. The chorus reflects the conflicting emotions experienced while being apart. "Upside, love you, downside, miss you" suggests that while their love remains strong, the pain and longing of being separated are present. They acknowledge their physical distance, stating "I'm here, you are there." The contrasting emotions of working and hurting are also emphasized, with the person expressing their feelings as an echo of a dancing bear. The lyrics mention being connected through a mobile device, indicating that the person can stay in touch with their loved one despite the distance. However, they still feel empty and gray when they are away from them, comparing their emotions to rain. The following section of the song talks about the person's work involving music and creativity. They mention violins, trumpets, and chocolate cakes as metaphors for the different elements they bring to their work. This could also signify their longing to bring joy and sweetness to their loved one's life, even when they can't be physically present. Overall, "Upside" by James is a heartfelt song that explores the emotional struggle of being apart from a loved one while trying to maintain a connection and express love despite the physical distance.
