What You Were

The Cranberries' song 'What You Were' delves into the emotional turmoil and loneliness that follows a significant personal loss. The lyrics poignantly capture the confusion and heartache of being left behind by someone who was once an integral part of the singer's life. The repeated questioning of 'Why people's lives are so lonely?' sets the tone for the song, highlighting the universal struggle with isolation and the search for understanding in the wake of abandonment.

The refrain 'What you were, what you were, I couldn't say' suggests a deep sense of unresolved feelings and unanswered questions. The singer grapples with the inability to fully comprehend the person who left them, indicating a relationship that was perhaps fraught with misunderstandings and unspoken emotions. This line underscores the complexity of human connections and the difficulty in truly knowing another person, especially when they are no longer present to provide clarity.

The recurring mention of being left 'behind, a stupid state of mind' emphasizes the lingering impact of the departure. The use of the word 'stupid' conveys a sense of self-blame and frustration, as if the singer feels foolish for not seeing the signs or for being unable to move on. The repetition of 'And I'm lonely' and 'And you're gone' drives home the persistent sense of loss and solitude that haunts the singer. The song encapsulates the painful process of coming to terms with abandonment and the enduring quest for closure and understanding.