New Man

Ed Sheeran's 'New Man' is a candid portrayal of the complex emotions that arise when faced with an ex-partner's new relationship. The song delves into the juxtaposition of wanting to move on while still being affected by the past. Sheeran uses humor and sarcasm to describe the new man's lifestyle and habits, painting a picture of someone who is the polar opposite of himself. The detailed descriptions of the new man's quirks, such as spending excessively on jeans, dieting, and having tribal tattoos without understanding their meaning, serve to highlight the superficiality Sheeran perceives in him.

Despite the mocking tone, there's an underlying sense of vulnerability. Sheeran admits to 'creeping' on his ex's social media and reflects on the memories they shared. The chorus reveals a deeper layer of emotion, as he insists he doesn't want to know about the new man, suggesting a struggle to let go. The repeated lines 'I'm positive that he don't wanna know about me' indicate a recognition of the new man's indifference towards him, which could be interpreted as Sheeran's attempt to convince himself to move on.

The song also touches on the theme of authenticity versus change. Sheeran reminisces about the girl he knew, who once enjoyed simple pleasures and now seems to have transformed into someone chasing trends and superficial ideals. The contrast between the past and present is stark, and Sheeran's message seems to be about staying true to oneself. Ultimately, 'New Man' is a reflection on personal growth, the pain of seeing an ex with someone else, and the bittersweet process of moving forward.