ordinary things (feat. Nonna)

"ordinary things (feat. Nonna)," the closing track of Ariana Grande's album Eternal Sunshine, serves as a cathartic and enlightening response to the initial doubts posed in "intro (end of the world)." This song, steeped in simple wisdom and everyday joys, embraces the idea that the extraordinary is found in the most ordinary moments when shared with a loved one.

The track begins with a series of luxurious hypotheticals and extravagant adventures, such as "We could have omakase in Tokyo if you wanna," to highlight a dining style that symbolizes trust and surrender. This culinary context not only suggests an act of letting choices be made by another but also reflects Ariana’s willingness to embrace the flow of the relationship, valuing her partner’s presence and choices in every shared moment.

However, the essence of the song is revealed in the simple and deeply personal lines: "But I don't want (want) anything (thing) / But more time." Here, Ariana emphasizes that, above all the worldly possibilities and experiences, what she values most is time spent with her beloved. This longing for more time together resonates as an echo of the most genuine and universal feelings in love—the pursuit of meaningful connection and presence.

The chorus "No matter what we do / There's never gonna be an ordinary thing / No ordinary things with you" captures the transformation of the mundane into something magical simply by the presence of a loved one. Ariana expresses how every moment, no matter how routine, is elevated to something extraordinary when experienced alongside someone she loves. This insight is a revelation that true wonder isn't found in grand gestures or luxuries but in the small interactions and shared experiences.

The inclusion of a spoken segment by Nonna, Marjorie Grande, Ariana's maternal grandmother, adds a layer of timeless wisdom and authenticity to the song's message. Nonna reflects on the importance of resilience and affection in relationships, emphasizing the need never to go to bed without a goodnight kiss and to leave a place where one does not feel comfortable doing so. These pieces of advice not only serve as an answer to Ariana's questions about how to know if she's in the right relationship but also reiterate the value of small gestures and true emotional compatibility.

"ordinary things" is not just a song about love; it is a meditation on how the simplest moments can be the most significant. Through her lyrics and the wisdom shared by Nonna, Ariana offers a comforting and inspiring perspective on the nature of true love—a love that finds its brilliance not in extraordinary escapades but in the beauty of everyday shared life. With this track, Ariana concludes her journey through the album with a deeper understanding and a renewed appreciation for the "ordinary" things that, in truth, are anything but.