The song "Don't Look Back" by Kenny Holland tells a story of love and longing set against the backdrop of a California boardwalk. The narrator reminisces about the first time they met their loved one on this boardwalk and how there is no other place they'd rather be. Despite being accompanied by their so-called best friend, the narrator only had eyes for the person they are singing about. The lyrics describe a moment when the two lovers find themselves trapped on the third floor of a beach hotel, just two stories away from each other. Ignoring any obstacles, the narrator sneaks out and goes down the stairs to be with their loved one. They are willing to go to great lengths to be together. As the story unfolds, the narrator reveals that their time together is about to come to an end, and they express uncertainty about being able to say goodbye once again. They encourage their loved one not to dwell on the past or waste time thinking about what has already happened. It is acknowledged that the good times they shared may not have always been perfect, yet the narrator believes that sometimes good times are neither more nor less than they need to be. The lyrics portray a specific memory of the couple sitting hand in hand, enjoying a sunset while being immersed in a pensive Pacific breeze. The narrator values those moments spent together, emphasizing that even a vibrant city like Phoenix cannot compare to the connection they share. Addressing their loved one directly, the narrator expresses their anguish at the thought of being without them until they are reunited in December. They admit to speaking untruths in the past but are now retracting those words because they need their partner as much as the sun needs the sky. Their plea for the loved one to look back suggests the desire to hold onto their shared memories and not let go completely. In the final chorus, the lyrics change the plea and ask the loved one to look back once again. This time, it is because there is a future still in store for them, implying that their relationship is not over. The narrator affirms that their loved one is the only person they want to be with and asks them to consider reevaluating their decision to leave. Overall, "Don't Look Back" captures the emotions of longing, nostalgia, and the desire to hold onto a love that may be slipping away. It is a plea to cherish the past, acknowledge the future, and reconsider the decision to part ways.
