How Can I Miss You

Nelson's song "How Can I Miss You" delves into the complexities of a relationship that has become suffocating despite its passionate beginnings. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of two individuals who initially agreed to a discreet, casual relationship. They experienced intense moments together, described with metaphors like "the earth moved beneath us" and "the planets aligned," indicating a powerful physical and emotional connection. However, the protagonist's expectations of maintaining distance and time apart are shattered as the partner becomes overly clingy.

The chorus highlights the protagonist's frustration with the partner's constant presence. The repeated line, "How can I miss you when you won't go away?" encapsulates the central theme of the song. The protagonist fantasizes about sending tokens of affection like diamonds, pearls, and flowers from afar, and writing songs to express the longing felt during separation. Yet, the reality is starkly different, as the partner's incessant need for closeness leaves no room for the protagonist to breathe or miss them.

The song uses clever metaphors to describe the partner's overbearing nature, such as "wearing a Velcro suit" and "stolen my air." These lines emphasize the suffocating feeling of being unable to move or have personal space. The protagonist's desire for a memory rather than a constant shadow reflects a longing for a balanced relationship where both individuals can have their own space. The song ultimately portrays the paradox of closeness, where too much proximity can lead to feelings of suffocation and resentment, rather than the cherished longing that distance can create.