Leaving on a Jet Plane
Engelbert Humperdinck Lyrics

The lyrics to Engelbert Humperdinck's "Leaving on a Jet Plane" depict the bittersweet emotions of someone preparing to depart from their loved one. The singer is readying themselves to leave, with their bags packed and standing outside their partner's door. They apologize for waking them up to say goodbye, acknowledging the early hour and the breaking dawn. The taxi is waiting outside, honking its horn, adding to the sense of urgency and imminent departure. The singer already feels a deep sense of loneliness, highlighting the emotional toll that leaving is taking on them.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the longing and desire for connection with the loved one. The singer asks for a kiss and a smile, along with the reassurance that their partner will wait for them. They want to be held tightly, not wanting to let go, knowing that the separation is difficult for both of them. The repetition of the line "Cause I'm leaving on a jet plane" underscores the impending departure and the uncertainty of when they will return. The singer expresses their reluctance to leave, saying "Oh babe, I hate to go."

The second verse acknowledges the singer's past mistakes and indiscretions. They admit to having let their partner down multiple times and engaging in infidelity. However, they assure their partner that these actions hold no significance anymore. The promise is made that regardless of where they go, their thoughts will be consumed by their loved one, and every song they sing will be dedicated to them. The final promise made is to bring back a wedding ring, implying a commitment to their relationship and the future.

The final verse marks the moment of departure, as the singer prepares to leave and gives their partner one last kiss. They encourage their partner to close their eyes and dream about the days to come, where they won't have to be apart. The singer relays the hope that one day they won't have to say goodbye anymore. The chorus is repeated once more to emphasize the reluctance to leave and the desire to stay connected, conveying the profound sadness the singer feels.

Overall, "Leaving on a Jet Plane" is a poignant song that captures the conflicting emotions surrounding departure, longing, and the desire to maintain a connection with a loved one.