As It Was

Hozier's song 'As It Was' is a poignant reflection on the constancy of love amidst life's changes and challenges. The lyrics paint a picture of a journey, both literal and metaphorical, where the protagonist is returning to a loved one after experiencing significant personal transformation. The 'roadway muddy and foxgloved' suggests a path that is both natural and treacherous, symbolizing the complicated journey that life often is.

The chorus, 'Just as it was, baby, before the otherness came,' speaks to a desire to return to a state of innocence and simplicity in a relationship before it was complicated by external factors, referred to as 'the drug, the dark, the light, the flame.' These elements represent the highs and lows, the good and bad that one experiences in life, which can alter one's perspective and self. Despite these changes, the protagonist's love remains unchanged, 'just as it was,' which underscores the theme of enduring love.

The song also touches on the theme of longing and the fear of being forgotten. The protagonist wonders how long their love will wait and if any of the love they left behind still remains. The imagery of 'your shape in the doorway' evokes a sense of homecoming and the yearning for reconnection. Ultimately, 'As It Was' is a testament to the resilience of love and the hope that it can withstand the trials of life and remain 'unmoved' by the darkness that may surround it.