Strange
Celeste (R&B)
The Cyclical Nature of Relationships in Celeste's 'Strange'
Celeste's song 'Strange' delves into the complexities and cyclical nature of human relationships. The lyrics express a sense of bewilderment at how connections between people evolve over time, often in unexpected ways. The artist reflects on a personal experience, possibly a romantic relationship, that has undergone a full circle—from strangers to friends, to lovers, and back to strangers. This transformation is highlighted as both peculiar and somewhat inevitable, a common human experience that many can relate to.
The song begins with an attempt to understand and clear the confusion ('smoke and dirt') that has settled over the relationship. The imagery of trying to pull someone's thoughts into one's hand suggests a deep desire to connect and understand the other person's perspective. However, the inability to do so leads to a realization that despite efforts, people can drift apart, and the essence of who they are remains unchanged. The chorus, 'Isn’t it strange? How people can change,' serves as a poignant reminder of the fluidity of human connections.
The latter part of the song introduces a sense of resignation and loss. The silence and whispers at the bedside symbolize introspection and the internal struggle that accompanies the end of a relationship. The 'violent disclosure' that 'turns my insides' could represent the painful truth that sometimes, no matter how much we want to hold on or go back to the way things were, we have to accept the change and move forward. Celeste's 'Strange' captures the bittersweet reality that relationships can transform in ways that are both beautiful and heartbreaking, leaving us to ponder the strange journey of human connection.