21

Gracie Abrams' song '21' is a poignant reflection on missed opportunities and the lingering feelings that follow a breakup. The lyrics convey a sense of regret and nostalgia as the narrator reminisces about a past relationship, specifically highlighting the missed twenty-first birthday of an ex-lover. The act of missing such a significant event suggests a deep emotional connection and a sense of loss that the narrator is grappling with. Abrams' lyrics often explore the complexities of relationships and the emotions that come with them, and '21' is no exception, showcasing her introspective and confessional songwriting style.

The song's chorus reveals a complicated emotional state where the narrator admits to feeling alone and missing the ex-partner, yet also recognizes the need for distance, asking not to be contacted after the night is over. This push and pull between longing and self-preservation highlights the difficulty of moving on from a relationship that was once deeply meaningful. The mention of turning thirty and the possibility of still feeling regret by then adds a layer of urgency to the narrator's current feelings, suggesting that the impact of this relationship may be long-lasting.

The cultural context of a twenty-first birthday as a milestone in young adulthood adds to the weight of the narrator's absence from the celebration. It's a time often associated with freedom and new beginnings, yet for the narrator, it's a reminder of what's been lost. The song captures the universal experience of reflecting on past relationships and the bittersweet nature of growth and change. Gracie Abrams' emotive delivery and the song's melancholic melody further amplify the sense of yearning and introspection that '21' embodies.