Old Friend

Mitski's 'Old Friend' is a poignant reflection on past relationships and the complex emotions that linger after a breakup. The song begins with a powerful metaphor, 'We nearly drowned / For such a silly thing,' suggesting that the relationship was intense and perhaps fraught with difficulties, yet the cause of their problems may have been trivial in hindsight. The mention of someone new who loves the protagonist 'better than you' indicates a moving on from the past, but there's a sense of comparison and unresolved feelings that persist.

The chorus, which repeats the invitation to 'meet me at Blue Diner,' serves as a central motif in the song. The Blue Diner represents a neutral ground, a place where the protagonist and their old love can reconnect without the pressures of their past relationship. The offer to 'take coffee and talk about nothing' implies a desire for casual interaction, yet the underlying tension is palpable. The phrase 'I'll take anything you want to give me' suggests a lingering attachment and perhaps a hope for reconciliation or closure.

The secrecy maintained about their past ('I haven't told anyone / Just like we promised') adds a layer of intimacy and trust to the narrative. The act of driving through the city of the former lover's origin and 'squeez[ing] a little' reveals that the protagonist is still affected by memories and emotions tied to the old relationship. Mitski's lyrics are rich with subtext, exploring themes of nostalgia, unspoken words, and the delicate dance of rekindling a connection with someone who was once a significant part of one's life.