 The lyrics of "Early Winter" are based on issues related to the end of a relationship, and Jennifer Vineyard from MTV described them to be "poignant lyrics about a couple recognizing the beginning of the end".In the song, Stefani metaphorically compares the end of her relationship with her partner to falling leaves.It was speculated that the song was a reference to Stefani's own relationship with English musician and husband Gavin Rossdale.