Who Knew

“Who Knew” by Malhação is a poignant reflection on the unexpected loss of a close friend or loved one. The song opens with a sense of trust and belief in the promises made by the other person, highlighting the deep bond and faith the narrator had in their relationship. The lyrics, “You took my hand, you showed me how / You promised me you'd be around,” set the stage for a story of shattered expectations and the pain of realizing that those promises were not kept.

As the song progresses, the narrator grapples with the disbelief and anger that comes with the loss. The line, “If someone said three years from now / You'd be long gone / I'd stand up and punch them out,” captures the raw emotion and denial that often accompany such a profound loss. The repeated questioning of “Who knew?” underscores the unpredictability of life and the difficulty of coming to terms with the absence of someone who was once a significant part of their world.

The song also delves into the theme of cherishing memories and the struggle to hold on to them as time passes. The narrator expresses a deep longing to reconnect with their lost friend, wishing they could “touch you again” and “still call you friend.” The lyrics, “I'll keep you locked in my head / Until we meet again,” convey a sense of hope and the enduring impact of the relationship, even as the narrator acknowledges the pain and difficulty of moving forward. The song’s emotional depth and relatable themes make it a touching tribute to the enduring power of friendship and the heartache of loss.