More Than Twice
Cynthia Erivo
Breaking Free from Repeated Deception
Cynthia Erivo's song "More Than Twice" is a powerful anthem of self-realization and liberation from a toxic relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and the emotional turmoil that comes with being repeatedly deceived by someone you trusted. The opening lines set the stage for a narrative of being trampled and overlooked, highlighting the imbalance in the relationship where one person continuously takes advantage of the other's kindness and forgiveness.
The metaphor of planting weeds in a garden is particularly striking, symbolizing how the other person has sown negativity and chaos in the singer's life. Despite efforts to nurture and grow, the singer finds themselves constantly having to deal with the aftermath of the other person's actions. This imagery of a garden being overrun by weeds reflects the struggle to maintain one's own well-being amidst the chaos caused by another.
As the song progresses, the imagery of drowning and freezing further emphasizes the suffocating nature of the relationship. The repeated phrase "more than twice" underscores the theme of reaching a breaking point after enduring repeated cycles of hurt and disappointment. Ultimately, the song is a declaration of independence and a refusal to be fooled again, capturing the moment of empowerment when one decides to break free from a harmful pattern and reclaim their own strength and agency.