now i know

Sarah Kang's song 'now i know' is a reflective piece that delves into the wisdom gained through life experiences and the realization that many of our youthful expectations are often idealized. The song opens with the notion that love would be as effortless and poetic as depicted in songs, films, and books. Kang contrasts this romanticized view with the reality that love is something that requires effort and is shaped by our actions and choices. This realization is a significant departure from the idea of a predestined soulmate, emphasizing that love is a construct we actively participate in creating.

The lyrics also touch on the fleeting nature of time, using the metaphor of summer vacation to illustrate how quickly moments pass. Kang expresses a sense of nostalgia and a wish that she had understood the transient nature of time earlier in life. This theme is further explored with the personification of time as a thief that cannot be caught, highlighting the inevitability of change and the importance of cherishing the present.

In the final verses, Kang contemplates mortality and the inevitability of death. She acknowledges that life is finite and that there won't be time to hold onto regrets. This acceptance of life's impermanence leads to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the present moment. The repeated refrain, 'I wish I had known, but at least now I know,' encapsulates the song's central message: while we may not have all the answers when we need them, the lessons we learn along the way are invaluable.