The Subway (Unreleased)

Chappell Roan's unreleased track 'The Subway' delves deep into the emotional turmoil of a breakup, capturing the lingering pain and the struggle to move on. The song opens with vivid imagery of the ex-lover's distinct features, such as green hair and a beauty mark, which haunt the narrator on the subway. This setting, a public yet intimate space, symbolizes the inescapable memories that surface in everyday life, leading to near breakdowns and emotional distress.

The recurring refrain, 'It's just another day, and it's not over till it's over,' underscores the relentless nature of heartache. The narrator's journey is marked by constant reminders of the past relationship, from the scent of a familiar perfume to the sight of a shadow that resembles the ex. These sensory triggers highlight the difficulty of moving on, as the pain feels perpetual and unending. The mention of Saskatchewan as a potential escape route signifies a desperate desire for a fresh start, far from the memories that plague the narrator.

The song also explores the internal conflict of vilifying the ex-partner for moving on while grappling with personal feelings of loss and longing. The narrator's promise to leave the city if the pain persists after four months reflects a hope for eventual healing, yet an acknowledgment of the deep-seated impact of the breakup. The repeated lines 'She's got a way, she got away' emphasize the ex's hold over the narrator, even as they strive to see her as 'just another girl on the subway.' This poignant track captures the essence of heartbreak, the struggle for closure, and the slow, painful process of letting go.