How It Ended
The Drums
Nostalgia and Unresolved Feelings in 'How It Ended' by The Drums
The song 'How It Ended' by The Drums is a poignant reflection on past relationships and the lingering feelings that remain after a separation. The lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia and a yearning for the times spent with a former partner, emphasizing that despite any pain experienced ('my heart was black and blue'), the moments shared with this person were incomparable ('there's nothing like it'). The repetition of these sentiments underscores the depth of the emotional connection and the impact it has had on the narrator's life.
The chorus, 'I don't know how it ended, I don't know where you ran to, I'll always be right here,' speaks to the confusion and unresolved nature of the relationship's end. It suggests a sudden or unexpected breakup, leaving the narrator without closure. The declaration of always being 'right here' indicates a steadfastness and perhaps a hope for reconciliation, or at least an understanding of what went wrong. This refrain is a powerful expression of the enduring presence of past love in one's life, even when the relationship itself has concluded.
The Drums, known for their indie pop sound with a touch of post-punk revival, often explore themes of heartache and longing in their music. 'How It Ended' is no exception, with its melancholic melody complementing the introspective lyrics. The song captures the universal experience of reflecting on a past relationship and the difficulty of moving on when questions remain unanswered. The repeated line 'How will this end and when will my life begin again' encapsulates the struggle of starting anew while still being haunted by what was left unresolved.