This Is How It Feels

Richard Ashcroft's 'This Is How It Feels' delves into the complexities and raw emotions of love when it becomes overwhelmingly real. The song opens with a series of 'Yeah, oooh' chants, setting a contemplative and almost haunting tone. Ashcroft's lyrics reflect a deep sense of introspection and vulnerability, as he acknowledges his past mistakes and the futility of trying to control or own his partner. The repeated line 'How foolish I've been' underscores his regret and realization of his own shortcomings.

The metaphor of love being injected 'straight through my veins' is particularly striking. It suggests an intense, almost addictive quality to the relationship, one that has left a lasting impact on him. The imagery of waiting for the sun to come again symbolizes hope and the desire for renewal, despite the pain and darkness he has experienced. This cyclical pattern of hurt and hope is a central theme in the song, capturing the essence of love's highs and lows.

Ashcroft's vocal delivery, combined with the song's melancholic melody, amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics. The repetition of phrases like 'This is how it feels when love it gets too real' and 'Are you still holding onto what we had?' emphasizes the lingering questions and unresolved feelings that often accompany deep emotional connections. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability and intensity that come with truly loving someone, and the inevitable scars that such love can leave behind.