It's Not The Same Anymore

Rex Orange County's song 'It's Not The Same Anymore' is a poignant exploration of personal growth, self-reflection, and the inevitable changes that come with life. The lyrics delve into the artist's internal struggle with his evolving identity and the emotional turbulence that accompanies it. The opening lines, 'I'll keep the pictures saved in a safe place / Wow, I look so weird here / My face has changed now,' set the tone for a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The artist reflects on how his appearance and feelings have transformed over time, indicating a sense of nostalgia and loss for his former self.

The chorus, 'It's not the same anymore / I lost the joy in my face / My life was simple before,' captures the essence of the song's theme. Rex Orange County acknowledges that life has become more complicated and challenging, leading to a loss of innocence and simplicity. Despite this, he finds solace in the realization that change is a natural part of life. The repetition of 'It's not the same anymore' emphasizes the inevitability of change and the importance of adapting to it.

As the song progresses, the artist delves deeper into his emotional state, expressing feelings of stress, suppression, and the pressure to maintain a facade. Lines like 'I'm tired of taking stress / If only there could be another way' and 'I miss the days when I was someone else' highlight the internal conflict and desire for a simpler, more authentic existence. However, the song takes a hopeful turn towards the end, with Rex Orange County embracing the lessons learned from his experiences. 'I've learned so much from before / Now I'm not sure on advice / There's no excuses at all' signifies a newfound sense of responsibility and empowerment. The closing lines, 'It's not the same anymore / It's better / It got better,' encapsulate the artist's journey towards self-acceptance and the realization that change, while difficult, can lead to personal growth and improvement.