Meaning of Once More to See You by Mitski

In Mitski's captivating song, "Once More to See You," the artist delves into the longing desire for a deep connection with someone, portraying themes of secrecy, reputation, isolation, and the yearning for intimacy. The overall theme of the song revolves around the need to be seen and understood by the person the narrator is addressing.One standout lyric that contributes to the development of themes in the song is, "In the rearview mirror, I saw the setting sun on your neck." This particular line evokes a sense of fleeting beauty and serves as a metaphor for the transience of intimacy. The sunset on the person's neck symbolizes the passing of time and the realization that moments of connection can be ephemeral, leaving the narrator yearning for more. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of relationships and the desire to grasp onto those moments.Another significant lyric is, "With everybody watching us, our every move, we do have reputations." This lyric explores themes of social pressure and the fear of judgment. It highlights the struggle to maintain secrecy and privacy within a relationship. The constant surveillance from others creates an obstacle to true intimacy, forcing the narrator and their partner to keep their connection hidden. This lyric elucidates the theme of the burden of reputation and the longing for authenticity in relationships.The line, "If you would let me give you pinky promise kisses, then I wouldn't have to scream your name atop every roof in the city of my heart," brings forth themes of vulnerability and the desire for validation. It represents the yearning for an honest, open, and public connection with the person addressed in the song. The imagery of screaming the person's name atop every roof in the city of the narrator's heart emphasizes their desire to be seen and acknowledged. The suggestion of pinky promise kisses signifies the innocence and sincerity of their affection, contrasting with the necessity for secrecy.The repetition of the phrase, "Alone with me, alone with me," underscores a theme of isolation and the longing for exclusive intimacy. Mitski emphasizes a desire to be alone with the person addressed, emphasizing the need for a private space where they can truly connect. This theme speaks to the idea that true intimacy often requires seclusion from the outside world, where inhibitions can be dropped, and vulnerability can be embraced.Overall, the lyrics in "Once More to See You" take the listener on a journey through the narrator's longing for connection, their struggle with the constraints of social expectations, and their yearning for a deeper and more authentic level of intimacy. The song's themes of secrecy, reputation, isolation, and the relentless desire to be seen and understood ultimately create a rich tapestry that resonates with the longing and vulnerabilities inherent in human relationships.