Song meaning of How Long by Dire Straits

"How Long" by Dire Straits is a soulful and introspective song that delves into the theme of unrequited love and the frustration of waiting for someone to reciprocate feelings. The lyrics express the singer's longing and impatience as they question the duration of their unfulfilled love. The repetition of the phrase "How long" throughout the song emphasizes the sense of longing and uncertainty.

The opening lines, "How long, how long baby / How long has it been," set the tone for the song, highlighting the passage of time and the singer's desire for clarity in the relationship. The lyrics "How long you gonna keep me wondering / How long before you see / Stallin' me was wrong" convey the frustration of being kept in the dark and the hope for the other person to realize the impact of their actions.

The chorus, with lines like "How long you gonna keep / Slappin' my hand away / How long you gonna keep my love at bay," reflects the singer's feelings of rejection and the struggle to break down emotional barriers. The lyrics "How long until I'm gonna make you mine / How long before you wake up / And find your good man gone" suggest a sense of determination and a warning that the other person may lose out on a good thing if they continue to hesitate.

Overall, "How Long" by Dire Straits is a poignant exploration of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships. The song captures the emotional turmoil of unreciprocated feelings and the yearning for resolution and clarity in matters of the heart.