Not Them

Zach Hood's song "Not Them" delves into the emotional aftermath of a failed relationship, capturing the essence of regret and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who is haunted by memories of a past love, reflecting on what could have been. The recurring imagery of a red light symbolizes a moment of pause and reflection, where the protagonist is reminded of their lost love. The line "I lost you faster than the light could change" poignantly captures the suddenness and unexpected nature of the breakup, emphasizing the fleeting nature of their time together.

The song's chorus reveals a deep sense of regret, with the protagonist wishing they had been kinder and more understanding. The lines "Wish I could hold your hand a little tighter / Take it all a little lighter" suggest a desire to have cherished the relationship more and not taken things so seriously. This sentiment is further echoed in the lines "But it's too late for what we could've been," highlighting the irreversible nature of their mistakes and the finality of their separation.

The emotional weight of the song is intensified by the protagonist's current state of despair, as seen in the verse about hating their apartment and being unable to remove tear stains from the carpet. This imagery underscores the lingering pain and the difficulty of moving on. The repetition of the phrase "now we're not them" serves as a stark reminder of the contrast between their past happiness and their present sorrow. Ultimately, "Not Them" is a heartfelt exploration of lost love, regret, and the longing for a second chance that will never come.