"Ae Fond Kiss" is not a song by Steve Harley, but a traditional Scottish ballad composed by Robert Burns, which has been covered by various artists including Steve Harley. Here is the explanation of the meaning and story of the song: The song tells the story of a heart-wrenching farewell between two lovers. "Ae fond kiss, and then we sever" means "One tender kiss, and then we separate." The phrase "Ae farewell, alas, forever" emphasizes the permanent nature of the farewell. The protagonist expresses their deep sorrow through tears and promises to remember and love their beloved despite the anguish. They vow to engage in a battle of sighs and groans, symbolizing their internal suffering. The lyrics reflect on the power of love and how it can bring both joy and heartbreak. The protagonist argues that it is better to have loved and experienced happiness, even if it leads to heartbreak, rather than never having loved at all. They believe that the love they shared was so powerful that it could not be resisted, named as "my Nancy" in the song. The farewell in the song is seen as the cause of the protagonist's despair. They imagine being in a state of darkness, with no cheerful thoughts or hopes. The lyrics convey the depth of their grief and the impact of the separation. The song concludes with a final farewell, where the protagonist wishes their beloved all the joy, treasure, peace, enjoyment, and love in the world. Despite the heartbreak, they still hold love and affection for their former partner. Overall, "Ae Fond Kiss" portrays the bittersweet nature of love, and the pain and longing that can come with parting ways. It showcases the universal themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human emotions.
