What about us
ATB
The Lingering Echoes of Lost Love in 'What About Us' by ATB
ATB's 'What About Us' delves into the emotional turmoil and lingering questions that follow the end of a significant relationship. The lyrics are a poignant reflection on the aftermath of love, where the narrator grapples with the reality of moving on while still yearning for reconciliation. The repeated lines, 'As a matter of fact, there’s no turning back,' underscore the finality of the breakup, yet the admission, 'I still want you back,' reveals an internal conflict and a deep-seated desire to rekindle what was lost.
The song's chorus, with its repeated questioning of 'What about us,' highlights the unresolved issues and broken promises that haunt the narrator. This refrain serves as a powerful reminder of the shared memories and the 'time of our lives' that now seem distant and unattainable. The mention of 'days I’m missing' and 'things that you had' suggests a sense of loss not just of the relationship, but of a part of the narrator's identity and happiness that was intertwined with their partner.
The metaphor of 'hide and seek' and 'Your weapon’s blood, is security' paints a picture of a relationship fraught with insecurity and emotional games. This imagery suggests that the partner's need for security may have come at the cost of the narrator's emotional well-being. The repeated phrase 'I’m waiting for you' conveys a sense of hope and patience, yet it is juxtaposed with the realization that 'It’s time to let go,' indicating a struggle between holding on and moving forward. ATB's musical style, known for its emotive and atmospheric qualities, amplifies the song's themes of longing and introspection, making 'What About Us' a resonant exploration of love's complexities and the pain of its aftermath.