Song meaning of On Your Side by The Last Dinner Party

The song "On Your Side" by The Last Dinner Party explores the complex emotions that arise from a toxic relationship and the desire to be there for someone despite the pain they've caused. 

In the first verse, the lyrics reflect on a past relationship with regret and a longing for forgiveness. The mention of lovers and physical intimacy on park benches juxtaposed with the image of stray dogs watching suggests a sense of shame and discomfort now associated with those memories.

The pre-chorus portrays a conflicted mindset, expressing a wish to move on from the person but also acknowledging the lingering desire for their presence. The mention of blood on the face implies the physical and emotional harm inflicted in the past, yet there is still a willingness to be hurt again.

The chorus represents the dedication to staying by the person's side during their moments of vulnerability and heartbreak. The speaker is committed to holding their hands and providing comfort, even if it means staying up all night. It showcases a deep empathy and a willingness to put aside personal pain for the sake of another.

The second verse recalls a situation where the person led the speaker to a dangerous place, metaphorically represented by olive mount and rocks. This illustrates how the person could be manipulative and unpredictable. Despite this, the speaker mentions that they believed the person's sweet smile and trusted them, only to be betrayed.

The post-chorus expresses a brief moment of hope and delusion, where the speaker believes the person truly loves them while they lie together. There is a plea for care during intimate moments, such as holding the speaker's hair back when kissing.

The outro reiterates the chorus's commitment to being there for the person, highlighting the speaker's unwavering determination to support the person even in the darkest moments.

Overall, "On Your Side" delves into the conflicting emotions experienced in a toxic relationship, showcasing themes of forgiveness, self-sacrifice, and the desire to be there for someone despite the pain inflicted. It highlights the complexities of love and the human tendency to cling to connection, even when it is harmful.