Lately by Stevie Wonder explores themes of suspicion, fear, and sadness in a relationship. The narrative suggests that the speaker suspects their partner may be unfaithful. This suspicion leads to emotional turmoil and a sense of impending heartbreak. Key poignant moments include the admission of dreaming about the partner being intimate with someone else and the declaration of unfaltering love despite the doubts. The song encapsulates the pain of insecurity and the complexity of love.