Heaven

Julia Michaels' song 'Heaven' delves into the complex emotions and experiences associated with falling for someone who is considered a 'bad boy.' The lyrics express a narrative of attraction, temptation, and the bittersweet aftermath of a passionate but potentially destructive relationship. Michaels uses religious imagery to describe the intensity of her feelings, equating love to a religion and the object of her affection to her faith. The metaphor of falling from grace suggests a loss of innocence or purity, highlighting the internal conflict between desire and the awareness of potential consequences.

The chorus of 'Heaven' plays on the common saying that 'good boys go to heaven,' but twists it to suggest that 'bad boys' have a unique ability to bring the excitement and thrill of 'heaven' to someone's life. This idea captures the paradoxical appeal of the bad boy archetype: the allure of the forbidden and the excitement that comes with it. Michaels acknowledges the power these individuals have, especially in how they leave a lasting impact, often leading to a longing for their return despite the knowledge that they may not be the best choice.

The song also touches on themes of nostalgia and the lasting impressions left by intense relationships. The garden metaphor in the final verse symbolizes the growth and experiences shared, but also the lingering effects that remain even after the relationship has ended. 'Heaven' by Julia Michaels is a reflection on the seductive pull of the bad boy, the lessons learned, and the memories that endure long after the affair has concluded.