How About Now
Drake
Reflections on Unrequited Love and Personal Growth
Drake's song "How About Now" delves into the themes of unrequited love, personal growth, and the realization of self-worth. The lyrics reflect a sense of betrayal and disappointment as Drake addresses a past lover who didn't appreciate his efforts and sacrifices. He reminisces about the times he went out of his way to support her, such as driving in the snow for her bar exam and deleting other girls' numbers from his phone. Despite his dedication, she didn't reciprocate his feelings or acknowledge his efforts, leaving him feeling undervalued and hurt.
The chorus, with its repetitive questioning of "how 'bout now?" highlights Drake's current success and contrasts it with the past when he was overlooked. This shift in circumstances serves as a form of poetic justice, as he is now "up" while she is "stuck." The song captures the bittersweet nature of achieving success and recognition after being disregarded by someone who once mattered deeply. It also underscores the idea that people often fail to recognize the value of others until it's too late.
Drake's introspective lyrics also touch on his struggles with self-doubt and the impact of his past relationship on his mental health. He mentions turning to alcohol and feeling like he was losing himself, which adds a layer of vulnerability to the song. The mention of his efforts to impress her family, such as buying her dad gifts and burning CDs of his music, further emphasizes his desire for acceptance and validation. Ultimately, "How About Now" is a poignant reflection on the complexities of love, the pain of unreciprocated feelings, and the journey towards self-empowerment and growth.