In this poignant ballad by One Direction, the lyrics explore the themes of lost potential and irreparable relationships. The metaphorical imagery of fire, ocean waves, cathedrals, mountains, and spaceships illustrates the highs and lows experienced in a tumultuous relationship that ultimately fails. The line "We had it all, yeah, and we walked away" conveys a sense of regret and missed opportunities. The repeated reference to the "long way down" signifies the emotional descent from a once elevated state of unity and happiness to a profound sense of loss and disillusionment. The struggle to forgive underscores the difficulty in reconciling past grievances despite recognizing the shared responsibility for their downfall. Ultimately, this song captures the sorrowful realization that some relationships reach a point where reconciliation is no longer possible, leaving an enduring sense of longing and reflection on what could have been.
