What Was That

Lorde's song "What Was That" delves into the haunting echoes of a past relationship, exploring the lingering emotions and memories that refuse to fade away. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a city life filled with solitude and introspection, where the protagonist finds herself covering mirrors, unable to face her own reflection. This imagery suggests a struggle with identity and self-perception, possibly exacerbated by the absence of a significant other. The use of smoke as a metaphor for a wedding veil hints at a union that was once cherished but is now obscured by the haze of time and distance.

The song's narrative takes us through a series of poignant memories, marked by moments of intense connection and euphoria. The mention of "MDMA in the back garden" and "kissing for hours" evokes a sense of youthful abandon and the intoxicating nature of love. However, these memories are tinged with a sense of longing and regret, as the protagonist reflects on the realization that the relationship was never enough. The recurring question, "What was that?", underscores the confusion and yearning for clarity in understanding what the relationship truly meant.

Lorde's lyrics also touch on the theme of moving on and the difficulty of letting go. Despite attempts to face reality and engage with the world, the protagonist finds herself haunted by the past, unable to fully escape its grasp. The "blue light" symbolizes a space where she can momentarily find solace and make sense of her emotions, yet the memories persist. This song captures the universal experience of grappling with the remnants of a love that once was, highlighting the complexity of human emotions and the enduring impact of past relationships.