Restless

Nneka's song "Restless" delves deep into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the journey towards acceptance and liberation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is deeply in love but finds that their feelings are not reciprocated. The repeated use of the word 'restless' underscores the constant state of unease and longing that the protagonist experiences. This restlessness is not just a physical state but also a mental and emotional one, as they grapple with the reality that their love is not returned in the same measure.

The song also explores themes of disillusionment and the pain of realizing that the relationship is not what it once seemed. Lines like "Tell me how can your love gather so much of hate" and "Did we forget all we have been through" highlight the confusion and hurt that come with the breakdown of a once-cherished bond. The protagonist is left feeling empty and surrounded by darkness, a stark contrast to the light that their partner once brought into their life. This imagery of light and darkness serves as a powerful metaphor for the emotional highs and lows experienced in the relationship.

However, amidst the pain and restlessness, there is also a sense of resolution and release. The repeated assertion that "You don't need me no more" signifies a turning point where the protagonist acknowledges the end of the relationship and begins to let go. The final lines, "Now my work has been done and I set you free," suggest a sense of closure and the beginning of a new chapter. The song ends on a hopeful note, with the protagonist seeing a 'brighter day' ahead, symbolizing the possibility of healing and moving forward.