How

The Cranberries' song 'How' delves into the emotional turmoil and sense of betrayal that comes with broken promises in a relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with the aftermath of being left alone, despite assurances to the contrary. The repetition of phrases like 'you said you never would leave me alone' underscores the shock and disbelief of the narrator, who is struggling to come to terms with the abandonment.

The chorus, with its lines 'Never before, never again, you will ignore, I will pretend,' highlights a cycle of denial and pretense. The narrator is caught in a loop of trying to ignore the pain and pretending that everything is fine, even though the reality is far from it. This repetition emphasizes the difficulty of moving on and the lingering impact of the broken promise.

The phrase 'In your world, you're alone in your face' suggests a sense of isolation and disconnection. It implies that the person who left is also dealing with their own loneliness and perhaps regrets. This adds a layer of complexity to the song, indicating that both parties are suffering in their own ways. The Cranberries' signature style of blending haunting melodies with poignant lyrics is evident here, making 'How' a powerful exploration of heartache and the human condition.