It's Only (feat. Zyra)

Odesza's 'It's Only (feat. Zyra)' is a haunting exploration of love, loss, and the emotional turmoil that accompanies them. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that has ended, leaving the narrator grappling with intense feelings of betrayal, anger, and sorrow. The opening lines, 'I heard the news today / That you’re not mine to keep,' set the stage for a narrative of heartbreak and the painful realization that the person they loved is no longer theirs.

The recurring refrain, 'It’s only water / It’s only fire / It’s only love,' serves as a mantra, perhaps an attempt to downplay the significance of these emotions and events. By repeating 'it’s only,' the narrator seems to be trying to convince themselves that these feelings are trivial, even though the depth of their pain suggests otherwise. The juxtaposition of 'water,' 'fire,' and 'love' with 'slaughter,' 'liars,' and 'blood' highlights the duality of love and the darker aspects of human relationships.

The metaphorical language used throughout the song, such as 'I won’t be gentle to / The body on the shelf,' suggests a sense of detachment and dehumanization. This could be interpreted as the narrator's way of coping with their loss by emotionally distancing themselves from their former lover. The repeated lines, 'They’re only thoughts that I’m having / Thoughts safe within my head,' indicate an internal struggle, where the narrator is trying to contain their tumultuous emotions and keep them from spilling over into their reality.

Overall, 'It's Only' delves into the complexities of love and loss, using vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the intense emotions that come with the end of a relationship. The song's haunting melody and poignant lyrics create a powerful and evocative listening experience, capturing the listener's attention and resonating with anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken heart.