What Was That

The song 'What Was That' by Lorde is a sensitive and nostalgic reflection on the quiet pain that lingers after the end of a meaningful relationship. The lyrics unfold like a personal diary, where the artist describes trying to return to her daily routine in an urban setting, while feeling emotionally disconnected. Certain actions, like covering mirrors or making meals she doesn't eat, symbolize a sense of alienation and a loss of identity. There's a strong feeling of emotional stagnation, as if the breakup froze her ability to recognize herself in the present moment.

In the chorus, Lorde dives into memories of an intense and impulsive love, referencing euphoric moments like long kisses and taking MDMA. These memories hit with an almost physical force, accompanied by the repeated question: what was that?, a phrase that echoes like an attempt to understand what that love really meant. The shared experiences have a teenage glow to them, but also carry emotional weight, the realization that even with all the passion, the relationship wasn't enough. It's as if she's reliving it all, trying to pinpoint when things began to fall apart.

The song also touches on the lingering presence of her ex, even after the breakup. Lorde admits she still feels him around, even in the middle of casual conversations with friends. This ghost-like presence symbolizes the deep impact he had on her life, an emotional echo that doesn't fade easily. The lyrics suggest there were already signs of distance before the actual end, pointing to a slow emotional disconnect between them. There's a bitter acceptance that the relationship was already breaking down before she fully realized it.

Musically, 'What Was That' marks a return to a sound more in line with Melodrama, featuring a dense electronic vibe, full of synths and danceable melancholy. But the track also hints at a creative and emotional rebirth, something Lorde herself expressed to her listeners. The impromptu performance in Washington Square Park, where fans gathered before the police stepped in, adds to the feeling of spontaneity and emotional connection with the audience. The song comes across as a rite of passage, both an ending and a new beginning.

Ultimately, 'What Was That' is both a look back and a step forward. By revisiting her emotions with maturity and honesty, Lorde turns pain into art, reaffirming her gift for transforming personal experiences into universal anthems. The title's repeated question carries a double meaning: she wants to understand what that love was, but she's also asking herself who she was during that chapter of her life. So, the song isn't just about longing; it's about identity, growth, and the strength to move on, even when the past still lingers.