The Way She Was Before

Colin Vearncombe, known by his stage name Black, delivers a poignant exploration of nostalgia and loss in his song 'The Way She Was Before.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man reminiscing about a past relationship, reflecting on the changes that have occurred in the woman he once knew. The song opens with a sense of longing as the narrator asks if anyone has seen her and if she looks the same as she did before. This sets the tone for a journey through memory, where the narrator grapples with the transformation of someone he once held dear.

The recurring theme of 'the look in her eyes' symbolizes the essence of the woman that has been lost over time. This look, which has gone missing, represents the innocence, joy, or perhaps the authenticity that the narrator cherished. The lyrics suggest that while the woman may still physically resemble her former self, something fundamental about her has changed. This change is further emphasized by the line 'Smiling at a stranger is when she's dangerous,' indicating a shift in her behavior and perhaps her values.

The song also touches on the bittersweet nature of memories. The narrator fondly recalls specific details like the clothes she wore, the way she walked, and the jokes she liked to tell. These memories are tinged with a sense of loss, as he admits that while the relationship was enjoyable, it was fleeting. The final lines, 'It didn't last long but I'm not bitter, I just miss her the way she was before,' encapsulate the complex emotions of acceptance and yearning. Vearncombe's lyrical storytelling and emotive delivery make 'The Way She Was Before' a touching reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes it brings.