28 (feat. Ruth B.)

Dean Lewis's song '28 (feat. Ruth B.)' is a poignant reflection on personal growth and the painful sacrifices that sometimes accompany it. The lyrics convey a narrative of putting someone else's needs before one's own, to the point of losing oneself in the process. The protagonist of the song has reached the age of twenty-eight and is taking stock of their life, realizing that in the course of a relationship, they have given so much of themselves that they've become estranged from their own identity and dreams.

The song's chorus, 'I guess I had to lose you on the way to find a me,' encapsulates the bittersweet realization that leaving the relationship was necessary for self-discovery. The artist suggests that while time may heal wounds, some experiences leave deep scars that shape who we become. The repetition of this chorus emphasizes the struggle between love for another and the need for self-love and fulfillment. The lyrics also touch on the theme of regret and the hope that the other person will find happiness, even if it's without the protagonist.

The emotional depth of the song is further highlighted by the contrast between past happiness, represented by 'movies on Tuesdays,' and the current sense of loss, symbolized by 'memories packed in a suitcase.' This metaphorical suitcase carries the weight of the past, which the protagonist has been bearing for too long. The song is a testament to the difficult journey of finding oneself after being deeply intertwined with another person's life.