Was That What it Was?

The song 'Was That What it Was?' by Pet Shop Boys delves into the complexities of a past relationship, marked by regret and introspection. The lyrics reflect a conversation with oneself, revisiting promises made and broken, and the lingering question of what went wrong. The repeated line 'Was that what it was?' serves as a poignant refrain, emphasizing the confusion and unresolved feelings that often accompany the end of a significant relationship.

The song's narrative is built around the themes of memory and loss. The lines 'Think again, remember what we said' and 'Promises, how we both forget' highlight the fragility of human commitments and the ease with which they can be forgotten. The mention of 'paradise' suggests a time when the relationship was idyllic, contrasting sharply with the present state of disillusionment. This juxtaposition underscores the emotional journey from bliss to heartbreak.

Pride and communication barriers are also central to the song's message. The lyrics 'I never dared to ring you up and ask you why / Too proud to beg or hear you cry' reveal a reluctance to confront the issues head-on, leading to a sense of unresolved tension. The questions 'Did you need something more in your life?' and 'I don't need any more in my life' suggest a disconnect in the partners' needs and desires, further complicating their relationship. Ultimately, the song captures the bittersweet nature of love and the lingering questions that remain when it ends.