The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Who Needs Revenge When I've Got Ellen Rae" by the artist "You Me At Six"

The song "Who Needs Revenge When I've Got Ellen Rae" by You Me At Six depicts a toxic relationship where the lyrical protagonist feels betrayed and used by his girlfriend, Ellen Rae.

On one hand, he admits that she's his "paradise" and "medicine," indicating a strong attachment and dependency. He feels like she's his escape, and he doesn't need revenge for past wrongdoings as long as she's around.

However, behind these words lies deep pain and disappointment. The protagonist realizes that Ellen is playing him, portraying herself as a victim and shifting the blame for her problems onto him ("She's broken, but says I need fixing"). He sees her hypocrisy and fakeness ("You could understand my feelings if you tried… You said you never learned to fake it").

The past likely refers to infidelity or betrayal on Ellen's part, as hinted by the lines "The past was trying to haunt me" and "You're just the same as last summer." The protagonist feels deceived and used, realizing that nothing has changed, and Ellen continues to manipulate him.

The metaphor of the match ("Lighting a match just to watch it all burn") symbolizes his desire to destroy this toxic relationship, to burn all bridges. But he feels powerless and unable to take decisive action.

Ultimately, the song conveys the despair, anger, and resentment of the lyrical protagonist, trapped in a destructive relationship where he can neither let go nor be happy.