Coming Up For Air
N.E.W. (Noble/Edwards/Ward) Lyrics


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I'd come up for air
Just to see you again
To see what your eyes did
When they looked into mine

I'd put down my drink
Just to make you think
That I could stand by you
As you begin to shine

Crowds don't listen like they used to no more
Old scores are settled by some other scores
All that I'm asking as all this time passes
Is where, do you want me to be
Where do you want me to be

The sun starts to drown
Now that winters in town
It feels a lifetime
Since I made a bed for two

But I'd come home today
If you asked me to stay
Because the feelings that I have
I've saved them just for you

Crowds don't listen like they used to no more
Old scores are settled by some other score
All that I'm asking as all this time passes
Is where, do you want me to be
Where do you want me to be

Crowds don't listen like they used to no more
Old scores are settled by some other score
All that I'm asking as all this time passes
Is where do you want me to be




Where do you want me to be
Where do you want me to be

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Coming Up For Air" by N.E.W. (Noble/Edwards/Ward) express a deep longing for connection and understanding in a world that seems to have lost its ability to truly listen and appreciate. The singer expresses a desire to pause and take a moment to breathe, to surface for air, just for the chance to see the person they care about once more. The act of meeting someone's gaze becomes significant, suggesting a desire for genuine connection and intimacy that transcends the noise and distractions of the world around them.


The lines about putting down a drink to show support and solidarity with the other person indicate a willingness to be present and stand by them as they navigate their own journey and growth. The mention of wanting to make the other person shine suggests a deep admiration and respect for their inner light and potential. Despite the distractions and chaos of life, the singer yearns for clarity and direction, seeking to understand where they stand in the eyes of the person they care about.


The imagery of the changing seasons, with the sun setting and winter arriving, reflects a sense of the passage of time and the emotional distance that may have grown between the singer and the other person. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the singer affirms their willingness to come home and stay if asked, underscoring their enduring feelings and commitment. The idea of making a bed for two symbolizes a desire for closeness and shared experiences, hinting at a longing for intimacy and partnership.


The repeated refrain about crowds no longer listening and old scores being settled by other means underscores a feeling of isolation and disconnect in a world that seems increasingly noisy and indifferent. The plea for guidance and direction - "where do you want me to be" - echoes a desire for clarity and a sense of belonging. Ultimately, the lyrics of "Coming Up For Air" convey a message of vulnerability, longing, and a yearning for a deeper connection amid the chaos and distractions of life.


Line by Line Meaning

I'd come up for air
I would take a moment to breathe and clear my mind


Just to see you again
Simply to have the opportunity to be in your presence once more


To see what your eyes did
To observe the emotions that your eyes express


When they looked into mine
When our gazes meet and connect


I'd put down my drink
I would give up my distractions


Just to make you think
In order to make you contemplate and consider something deeper


That I could stand by you
To show that I am willing to support you


As you begin to shine
While you start to show your true potential


The sun starts to drown
The daylight fades away


Now that winters in town
Now that the cold season has arrived


It feels a lifetime
It feels like a very long time


Since I made a bed for two
Since I last prepared for a shared future with another person


But I'd come home today
Yet, I would return home immediately


If you asked me to stay
If you wished for me to remain by your side


Because the feelings that I have
Due to the genuine emotions that I experience


I've saved them just for you
I have reserved them exclusively for you


Crowds don't listen like they used to no more
People do not pay attention as they did in the past


Old scores are settled by some other scores
Past grievances are resolved through new actions


All that I'm asking as all this time passes
My only request as time goes by


Is where, do you want me to be
Is your preference for my presence


Where do you want me to be
In what location or situation do you desire me to exist


Where do you want me to be
Where should I position myself according to your wishes




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Matt Ward

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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