Promises Lyrics – Luke Hemmings

[Verse 1]
Hemmings describes falling in love in a cold city. The partner criticizes his lifestyle and pushes him against the wall, indicating a moment of conflict and intimacy. This sets the scene for a relationship filled with both tension and affection.

[Pre-Chorus]
Hemmings expresses a desire to stay despite the cold night and not wanting to sleep alone. He asks his partner to tell him it's too late to drive, signifying his wish to prolong their time together and avoid separation.

[Chorus]
In the chorus, Hemmings repeatedly asks if he can stay the night. This repetition emphasizes his longing to be close to his partner and not face the night alone. It highlights the emotional need for connection and comfort.

[Post-Chorus]
Hemmings reflects on the promises he's made and the difficulty of being alone. He acknowledges that being with his partner makes it hard to be by himself, underscoring the depth of his attachment and the pain of broken promises.

[Verse 2]
Hemmings admits he wasn't always a cynic but has become one due to past experiences. He appreciates that his partner sees the beauty in him despite his flaws. This verse highlights the impact of his partner's perspective on his self-worth and the transformative power of love.

[Pre-Chorus]
The pre-chorus repeats, emphasizing Hemmings' reluctance to leave and his desire to stay with his partner on the cold night. The repetition reinforces his emotional state and the comfort he finds in their presence.

[Chorus]
The chorus repeats, with Hemmings' plea to stay the night becoming more insistent. This repetition deepens the sense of urgency and emotional need, illustrating his struggle with separation.

[Post-Chorus]
Hemmings again reflects on the promises made and the difficulty of being alone. The repetition of this section underscores the recurring theme of broken promises and the challenge of maintaining a connection despite past disappointments.

[Outro]
In the outro, Hemmings acknowledges that promises are often broken, but the moments of intimacy and connection make it worthwhile. He feels better around his partner, despite the inevitable consequences of broken promises. This closing section encapsulates the song's theme of finding solace and understanding in each other, despite the imperfections and challenges of their relationship.