The song "I Really Must Be Going" by Joan Armatrading tells the story of a complicated love affair. The narrator meets someone who expresses their love for her and claims to have been searching for her their whole life. However, she admits to being married, which the other person thinks is not right. Despite this, there is a strong attraction between them, and even a simple touch from the other person's fingers sets them on fire with desire. They can't wait to kiss each other, but they struggle to control their longing and put out the passionate flame. The narrator agrees to go to the other person's apartment out of politeness, intending to leave soon after. However, the other person persuades her to stay, and they continue to indulge in their fiery connection. The next morning, the narrator receives a phone call from the other person, who admits they were wrong and expresses their hope that the narrator will eventually fall in love with them. They continue to call every day, hoping for a chance to be together. The narrator has a flight to catch but keeps changing her mind about staying or leaving. Ultimately, she decides to leave this particular moment, knowing that if they start a relationship, both she and the other person would be lost. They both acknowledge their regret at parting ways but understand that they are destined to see it through. The narrator still holds memories of the other person, envisioning their face, recalling the scent they wore, and hearing their voice crying. The song concludes with the narrator unable to resist the burning desire, unable to contain the yearning, and unable to put out the fire of their intense connection. Overall, "I Really Must Be Going" explores the complexities of a forbidden love affair, the internal struggle between desire and commitment, and the lingering emotions that can't be easily extinguished.
