This Is How It Went

In 'This Is How It Went,' beabadoobee delves into the complexities of communication, self-expression, and emotional healing. The song opens with the artist struggling to find the right words for an email, a metaphor for the difficulty of expressing oneself in a digital age. The imagery of a piece of gum stuck on her shoe symbolizes lingering issues that are hard to shake off, urging the listener to move on from past grievances.

The chorus reveals the artist's true intention behind her music: writing as a form of healing rather than a means to hurt others. This sentiment is reinforced by her admiration for other songwriters, like Elliott Smith, who also used music to navigate their emotional landscapes. The act of writing songs becomes a therapeutic process, a way to process and release emotions constructively. The artist contrasts this with the idea of making a movie, suggesting that while some might prefer grand gestures or dramatic expressions, she finds solace in the simplicity of songwriting.

The song also touches on themes of unreciprocated efforts and the frustration of being misunderstood. The artist reflects on how she tried to help someone who ultimately messed up on their own, highlighting the futility of her efforts. This sense of exhaustion is palpable in the repeated plea to be allowed to sleep, symbolizing a desire for peace and respite from emotional turmoil. Through 'This Is How It Went,' beabadoobee offers a poignant exploration of the healing power of music and the challenges of emotional expression in a complicated world.