The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Breathe" by the artist "Years Years"

In the song "Breathe" by Years & Years, the lyrical hero finds himself in a toxic relationship and questions its meaning. He addresses his lover, who behaves dishonestly and inconsistently.

The hero is tired of constant fights and reconciliations, of promises of love that are not followed by any actions. He feels that his feelings are not valued, that his partner is only there in good times ("You're only around when your brother ain't got no car, no money").

Urging the girl to "release her wave" and "stop messing around," the hero seems to be trying to shake her up, to make her realize the frivolity of her behavior. He understands that this relationship is destroying him ("If love hurts, then nothing comes of it"), and suggests taking a break ("We need to breathe") to sort himself and the situation out.

The song is imbued with pain, disappointment, and fatigue. The repeating refrain "What's the point, babe?" reflects the depth of the lyrical hero's despair.