Everything Changes

Sara Bareilles' song "Everything Changes" is a heartfelt ode to the transformative experience of becoming a mother. The lyrics capture the profound shift in identity and perspective that accompanies the arrival of a child. The opening lines, "Today's a day like any other, but I am changed I am a mother," set the stage for a narrative that explores the deep emotional and existential changes that motherhood brings. The singer reflects on how her previous self has vanished, replaced by a new identity centered around her child. This transformation is depicted as both sudden and all-encompassing, emphasizing the innocence and purity of the newborn as a catalyst for this change.

The imagery of "two tiny hands, a pair of eyes" and an "unsung melody" symbolizes the new life and potential that the child represents. The singer's commitment to protecting and nurturing this new life is evident in lines like "I'd hang the moon for it to shine on her sleeping." This metaphor underscores the lengths to which a mother will go to ensure her child's well-being. The song also touches on the idea of redemption and healing, as the singer feels that her past mistakes and messy life now make sense in the context of her new role. The arrival of the child brings clarity and purpose, allowing the singer to believe in herself and her ability to grow and heal.

The chorus, with its repetition of "everything changes," reinforces the theme of transformation. The singer's heart is now "at the wheel," indicating a newfound sense of direction and control driven by love for her child. The realization that what once seemed permanent can fade highlights the impermanence of life and the importance of cherishing the present moment. The song concludes with a sense of gratitude and wonder, as the singer marvels at the gift of her child and the profound impact it has had on her life. The closing lines, "thank God for you," encapsulate the deep sense of appreciation and reverence for the miracle of new life.