Loss
The No Lyrics

The lyrics to The No's song "Loss" convey a sense of reflection and personal growth in the face of adversity. The singer seems to be reflecting on past mistakes and missed opportunities, acknowledging the pain and regret they have caused. The opening lines suggest a pattern of lateness or delay, metaphorically representing a lack of action or initiative in their life. The mention of smoke and ache may symbolize a moment of realization or awakening, where they begin to understand the consequences of their choices.

The reference to a treasure map glowing with someone else's star suggests that they have been inspired or guided by another person, perhaps a mentor or someone they admired. However, they admit to not fully appreciating or listening to the wisdom imparted by this person, ultimately resulting in missed opportunities for growth. The repetition of "It's not a loss, it's a lesson" highlights their newfound understanding that even their failures and losses have brought valuable lessons and insights.

The imagery of the pawn and the king represents a power dynamic or hierarchy, with the pawn being the weaker and more vulnerable. The singer realizes that they have been relying too much on others, expecting someone else to solve their problems or provide direction. They come to realize that they need to take charge of their own life and find their own way out, as represented by the line "the only way out is the sky." This suggests a metaphorical ascension or reaching for something higher or greater.

The later verses emphasize the idea of time and the importance of seizing the present moment. The mention of climbing the ladder of life indicates a journey, with time being a limited resource. The message is to not waste time and to embrace one's inner self, as represented by "Give your soul a break, I'll never let it die." The repetition of "It's not a loss, it's a lesson" further underscores the idea that setbacks and hurtful experiences ultimately serve as valuable lessons for personal growth.

Overall, "Loss" carries a message of self-reflection, acceptance of past mistakes, and a determination to learn and grow from them. It encourages listeners to embrace their own agency, take responsibility for their own lives, and find the strength and resilience to move forward.