July
Noah Cyrus
The Heartache of Staying in Unfulfilling Love
Noah Cyrus' song "July" is a poignant reflection on the pain and indecision that comes with being in a relationship that has run its course. The lyrics convey a deep sense of emotional turmoil and the struggle of loving someone who doesn't fully reciprocate those feelings. The protagonist of the song is caught between the fear of change and the discomfort of remaining in a situation where they feel undervalued and unappreciated.
The repeated line, 'I'm afraid of change, guess that's why we stay the same,' encapsulates the central conflict of the song. It speaks to the human tendency to cling to the familiar, even when it's detrimental to our well-being. The song's narrator is aware that they deserve better treatment and possibly a better partner, yet they find themselves unable to take the steps necessary to initiate change. This is further emphasized by the lines 'tell me to leave, I'll pack my bags, get on the road,' which suggest a readiness to move on but also a need for the other person to push them to do so.
The melancholic tone of the song is underscored by the simplicity of the musical arrangement, which allows Cyrus' emotive voice to carry the weight of the message. The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt stuck in a relationship, knowing they should leave but finding it hard to let go. "July" is a testament to the complexity of love and the courage it takes to either stay and fight for it or to walk away in search of something better.