Joy

Ellie Goulding's song 'Joy' delves into the complex emotions that accompany the end of a relationship. The opening lines, 'Stood in the rain and watched you go / I feel a lump in my throat,' set a melancholic tone, capturing the immediate pain and sorrow of watching a loved one leave. This imagery of standing in the rain symbolizes a moment of vulnerability and helplessness, emphasizing the emotional weight of the situation.

The recurring theme in the song is the realization that true joy cannot be found in another person. Goulding sings, 'I've figured out that joy is not in your arms / I know I'll always ache with an empty heart,' highlighting the painful acknowledgment that relying on someone else for happiness is ultimately unfulfilling. This sentiment is further reinforced by the line, 'That high makes things harder / That high I get from you,' suggesting that the temporary euphoria of love can complicate and intensify the eventual heartache.

Despite the pervasive sadness, there is a glimmer of resilience in the lyrics. The line, 'I think of dying all the time / But I've got joy to take my side,' indicates a struggle with dark thoughts but also a determination to find joy within oneself. The repeated mention of 'seeing stars' can be interpreted as moments of clarity or epiphanies amidst the chaos, as well as the disorienting effect of emotional turmoil. Ultimately, 'Joy' is a poignant exploration of the search for inner happiness and the realization that it must come from within, rather than from external sources.