When I'm Older

Ashe's song "When I'm Older" delves into the bittersweet memories of a past relationship, capturing the intensity and complexity of young love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a tumultuous romance filled with passionate highs and devastating lows. References to "pay phone calls," "cigarettes," and "shower sex" evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when life was chaotic and unrestrained. The relationship, described as "complicated" and "understated," reflects the often confusing and overwhelming nature of young love, where emotions run high and rationality takes a backseat.

The chorus reveals a sense of longing and hope for the future, as Ashe contemplates the possibility of moving on from this intense love. The repetition of "Maybe when I'm older" suggests a yearning for the passage of time to heal the wounds and dull the memories. The idea that in thirty years, the pain and regret might fade, and the stories about the past lover will no longer hold the same weight, is a poignant reflection on the healing power of time. This sentiment is further emphasized by the line, "Maybe when I'm six feet underneath the concrete," implying that only in death will the longing and love truly dissipate.

The song also touches on the innocence and naivety of young love, with lines like "Playing house" and "Picking out furniture" highlighting the dreams and fantasies that often accompany early relationships. The mention of "emotional souvenirs" and "fleeting moments" underscores the transient nature of these experiences, while the phrase "golden years" suggests that despite the pain, these memories are cherished and hold a special place in the heart. Ashe's reflective and introspective lyrics, combined with her emotive delivery, create a powerful and relatable narrative about the enduring impact of first love and the hope for eventual healing.