The song tells the story of a man living a solitary life in a small rented room, reflecting on his circumstances compared to the woman he loves. 1. The Reality of Loneliness
Despite his poverty, he indulges in a modest dream of a future: A small house. A "cool stream of love."
The opening lines describe a life of "lonely lamps" and a "cold boarding house." He has lived this "bachelor's life" for a long time, with no close or distant romance to keep him company. 2. The Social Barrier