The song "Friends Not Lovers" by Joan Armatrading explores the complexities of romantic relationships and the challenges that come with transitioning from being lovers to just friends. In the song, the narrator expresses their desire to rekindle the romantic relationship they once had with someone, despite the fact that the other person has decided to end it. They acknowledge the difficulty of remaining friends after a breakup but emphasizes that they can't just settle for friendship because their feelings are still strong. The lyrics suggest that the narrator believes their broken hearts can be healed and that they are willing to do whatever it takes to win back their former lover. They understand that people change over time, but they stand firm in their commitment to be what the other person wants and to be wherever they are. Overall, the song conveys the longing and desperation of someone who wants to bring back the romantic love they once shared with another person, even if it means risking the possibility of remaining just friends. The lyrics convey the narrator's refusal to accept the idea of being friends without being lovers because their feelings are still strong.
