Never Been Better (feat. Orla Gartland)

In 'Never Been Better,' half • alive, featuring Orla Gartland, delves into the complexities of modern life and the pressure to appear perpetually happy. The song opens with a seemingly casual conversation where the protagonist is asked about their well-being. Despite the outward appearance of living their 'best life,' they confess internally that they've 'never been better,' a phrase dripping with irony. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the emotional dissonance between how we present ourselves to the world and how we truly feel inside.

The chorus, 'At the top, congratulations! Heart so full, I know I'll break it,' captures the paradox of achieving success while feeling emotionally fragile. The protagonist is 'scared of all these dreams I'm chasing,' highlighting the anxiety that often accompanies ambition. The imagery of 'falling and hitting the pavement' serves as a metaphor for the fear of failure and the emotional toll it takes. This juxtaposition of external success and internal turmoil is a recurring theme, emphasizing the societal pressure to maintain a facade of happiness.

The song also touches on the difficulty of expressing true feelings in a world that values positivity. The line, 'How do I explain to a stranger I'm not having a good year?' encapsulates the struggle of conveying one's inner turmoil. Instead, the protagonist opts for the easier route, saying, 'I'm great, move on with my day,' to avoid the discomfort of vulnerability. This reflects a broader cultural tendency to prioritize appearances over authenticity, making 'Never Been Better' a poignant commentary on the emotional cost of maintaining a perfect image.