In this poignant ballad, Eels explores themes of unrequited love and longing. The narrator observes the woman he desires, noting the radiant joy she exudes when with her current partner. This contrast highlights his own feelings of inadequacy and yearning. He dreams of being the man who elicits such happiness from her, believing that if given the chance, he would never disappoint her. Despite recognizing his own shortcomings and limited chances, he remains hopeful that one day she might see him in a different light. The song captures the bittersweet essence of loving someone from afar while grappling with self-doubt and hope for a future connection.
