Alison

The speaker unexpectedly sees Alison again and feels a mixture of hurt, jealousy, and concern. She seems unimpressed by him, and he has heard about her involvement with a friend of his. Although he tries not to sound sentimental, he admits that she is with someone else and that he still cares. As the song continues, he describes her marriage and speech with increasing bitterness, while also saying that life seems to be hurting her.

Several images carry more than one possible meaning. The “party dress” suggests a social occasion and may hint at intimacy, but the speaker’s account is hearsay, not certain knowledge. “Sticky valentines” compares romantic declarations to something cloying or overly sweet, showing his wish to avoid open sentiment. The “big light” may be a literal light, but it can also suggest ending an uncomfortable scene; he cannot bear to watch Alison as she is now.

“My aim is true” sounds like a claim that his feelings or intentions are sincere. Yet “aim” can also suggest a weapon or accusation, giving the phrase a sharper edge. The speaker may genuinely want Alison to be well, but his jealousy and judgment complicate that care. The lyrics leave open whether he sees her clearly or is interpreting her through his own disappointment.