The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Without" by the artist "Years Years"

In the song "Without" by Years & Years, the lyrical hero experiences unrequited love. He sees the object of his affection as an ideal ("You're number one, you're second to none"), something unattainable ("You don't belong to me, you're too far gone").

The hero's main pain is the realization that his feelings are not reciprocated ("You're in love, but you're not in love with me"). Despite this, he feels a deep spiritual connection with this girl ("We're kindred spirits"), although he understands that she will never reciprocate his feelings ("but you'll never know me").

Realizing the futility of the situation, the hero decides to move on, to accept reality as it is ("'Cause I'll be going and I'll live without you"). He understands that dwelling on unrequited feelings only brings pain, and tries to let go of the situation, even if it means a complete break ("You can regret this, you can make it worse").

Despite the firmness of his decision, the hero still hopes that his beloved will someday realize what she missed ("Oh, at night you'll still be shaking"). He believes that their connection is strong enough to overcome all difficulties, if only she would give this relationship a chance ("I can let you own me and tell us both maybe we're gonna make it if we've got the strength to see it through").

In the end, the song leaves a feeling of bright sadness. The hero accepts reality but does not lose hope for a possible future in which his feelings will be reciprocated.