To Be Happy

Nana Ou-Yang's song "To Be Happy" delves into the complex emotions that arise after a breakup. The lyrics capture the internal conflict of wanting an ex-partner to find happiness while simultaneously struggling with the pain of seeing them move on. The song opens with the acknowledgment that communication has ceased, making the passage of time feel even more challenging. The singer misses the past relationship but recognizes that longing alone won't change the situation.

The chorus reveals the heart-wrenching reality of seeing an ex with someone new. The singer admits to not knowing how to cope with these emotions, highlighting the difficulty of truly letting go. The repeated line, "I just want you to be happy, but I don’t wanna have to see it," encapsulates the essence of the song. It speaks to the universal experience of wishing well for someone while grappling with personal heartbreak.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of pretending and avoidance. The singer hopes to encounter the ex only in passing, where they can both pretend that moving on is easy. The imagery of keeping eyes closed to avoid the painful reality of the ex's new relationship further emphasizes the struggle of dealing with unresolved feelings. Ultimately, the song is a poignant exploration of the bittersweet nature of love and loss, capturing the delicate balance between selflessness and self-preservation.