Where do You Start?

Shirley Horn's song "Where do You Start?" delves into the emotional turmoil and confusion that follows the end of a significant relationship. The lyrics poignantly explore the difficulty of disentangling shared lives and memories, capturing the essence of heartbreak and the daunting task of moving forward. The opening lines, "Where do you start / How do you separate the present from the past," set the tone for the song, highlighting the challenge of distinguishing between what was and what is now. This sentiment is further emphasized with the imagery of scattered memories, symbolizing the fragmented state of the narrator's heart and mind.

The song also touches on the practical aspects of a breakup, such as dividing possessions and untangling intertwined lives. The lines, "Which books are yours / Which tapes & dreams belong to you & which are mine," illustrate the complexity of separating not just physical items but also shared dreams and habits. This metaphor of lives tangled like branches of a vine underscores the deep connection that once existed and the painful process of unraveling it. The song acknowledges the inevitability of encountering reminders of the past, as expressed in the verse, "One day there'll be a song or something in the air again / To catch me by surprise & you'll be there again."

Despite the sorrow, the song ends on a note of hope and resilience. The narrator contemplates whether to allow time for mourning or to move on quickly, ultimately deciding to try and find love again. The promise of keeping a "tiny part within my heart / That stays in love with you" suggests that while the relationship has ended, the love and memories will always hold a special place. Shirley Horn's soulful delivery and the song's introspective lyrics create a powerful and relatable narrative about the complexities of love and loss.