Lyric discussion by steve11354 

Cover art for Rose lyrics by Mott The Hoople

I used to have this album when I was young and struggling with my addictions. My view is it is the fading of life and joy through the overindulgence of a life of partying,etc. I always thought the last line “hate to see you cold on a summer day” meant she had actually died. Whatever it’s saying, there is real sadness to it.