Empty Chairs by Don McLean is a heartfelt ballad that delves into themes of loss, regret, and longing. The song paints a vivid picture of a man reflecting on a past relationship, now ended, as he reminisces about the vacant spaces once filled with the presence of a loved one. The 'empty chairs' symbolize the void left in his life and the emotional emptiness he feels. The lyrics poignantly capture the essence of regret and the sorrow of missed opportunities, particularly in lines like 'And I wonder if you know, that I never understood, that although you said you'd go, until you did I never thought you would.' This song serves as a powerful reminder of the pain that comes with love lost and the inevitable passage of time.