Against All Odds
Wicker Park - Postal Service Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Just let you leave without a trace?
When I stand here taking every breath with you, ooh ooh
You're the only one who really knew me at all
How can you just walk away from me
When all I can do is watch you leave?
'Cause we've shared the laughter and the pain
You're the only one who really knew me at all
So take a look at me now
Well there's just an empty space
And there's nothing left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face
Take a look at me now
Well there's just an empty space
And you coming back to me is against the odds
And that's what I've got to face, oh
I wish I could just make you turn around
Turn around and see me cry
There's so much I need to say to you
So many reasons why
You're the only one who really knew me at all
So take a look at me now
Well there's just an empty space
And there's nothing left here to remind me
Just the memory of your face
Take a look at me now
Well there's just an empty space
But to wait for you is all I can do
And that's what I've got to face
Take a good look at me now
'Cause I'll still be standing here
And you coming back to me is against the odds
And it's what I've got to face
Take a look at me now
The lyrics of "Against All Odds" by The Postal Service in the movie Wicker Park soundtrack embody deep emotions of heartbreak and longing. The singer expresses intense feelings of disbelief and helplessness as their loved one decides to walk away without a trace. The anguish of watching them go, knowing that the connection they shared will never be the same again, is palpable in the lines "When I stand here taking every breath with you, ooh ooh / You're the only one who really knew me at all." The vulnerability in admitting that the departing person was the only one who truly understood them showcases the depth of the emotional bond that is now broken.
As the singer grapples with the reality of the departure, the pain intensifies as they recount the shared experiences of laughter, tears, and everything in between. The rawness of the situation is highlighted in the line "How can you just walk away from me / When all I can do is watch you leave?" The memories of the good and the bad times shared only add to the sense of loss and longing felt by the singer, emphasizing the profound impact the departing person had on their life.
The loneliness and emptiness felt in the absence of the loved one are beautifully captured in the lines "Well there's just an empty space / And there's nothing left here to remind me / Just the memory of your face." The emptiness left behind by the departing person is a constant reminder of what once was, making it even harder for the singer to move on. The repetition of the phrase "Take a look at me now" serves as a plea for the departed person to witness the pain and devastation felt in their absence.
The final verses of the song convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of the harsh reality that the loved one might never return. The singer's desire for reconciliation and their willingness to wait despite the odds stacked against them reflect a mix of hope and despair. The enduring image of the singer standing alone, waiting for a return that may never happen, encapsulates the bittersweet essence of unrequited love and the resilience to keep holding on despite the pain.
Line by Line Meaning
How can I just let you walk away,
How can I possibly allow you to leave?
Just let you leave without a trace?
Letting you go without a sign of your presence
When I stand here taking every breath with you, ooh ooh
Breathing the same air as you, sharing every moment
You're the only one who really knew me at all
You're the one who truly understood me
How can you just walk away from me
Why did you choose to leave me behind
When all I can do is watch you leave?
Feeling helpless as I see you go
'Cause we've shared the laughter and the pain
We have experienced joy and sorrow together
And even shared the tears
We shed tears together
So take a look at me now
Take a moment to see how I am now
Well there's just an empty space
There is only emptiness left
And there's nothing left here to remind me
No reminders of your presence
Just the memory of your face
Only the memory of your face remains
But to wait for you is all I can do
All I can do is wait for your return
And that's what I've got to face
Accepting the reality of waiting for you
Take a good look at me now
Observe me closely in my current state
'Cause I'll still be standing here
I will remain steadfast and resilient
And you coming back to me is against the odds
The chances of you returning are unlikely
And it's what I've got to face
I have to come to terms with this reality
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Tratore, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Phillip David Charles Collins
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@gloriaamaro2606
I can appreciate both versions. I actually like this one because my daughter introduced me to it, not knowing that it was a remake of Phill Collins and we ended up bonding over this song. That was around 5 years ago. She's since left the nest. I miss her living with me.
@weslo5488
I'll live with you
@trippiebutters
havent heard this song in over 6 years i forgot it existed. used to listen to it like i had something to be sad about, now its actually relatable. it takes my breath away to hear it all again.
@fruittoperfection
Something to be sad about
@TheAngryGrandpaShow
I much prefer this version
@wizzard4063
This song hits for anyone who has been ghosted by someone who you have invested in emotionally. There is no closure. Just that empty space that lives forever where they used to live.
@ochocko
sadly.. even though ive heard this song a thousand times over the years.. my eyes still tear up every time i hear it.
@Flatlanderhikes_
I’m still tearing up
@MissMichSan
I remember watching this when i was a teenager. ❤ im 39 now he left without saying a word. This song is helping with the void.
@underflowrecords7362
this entire soundtrack is amazing. one of the best. the whole last minute of this track is so good