remember when

Michael Clifford's "Remember When" is a poignant exploration of love's complexities and the nostalgia for simpler times. The song opens with vivid imagery of "black mascara tears," suggesting emotional turmoil and conflict. This sets the stage for a narrative about a relationship that is both passionate and tumultuous. The lyrics convey a sense of division and the struggle to find peace, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a connection when both parties are "forgiving," yet unable to heal the wounds with mere apologies.

The recurring question, "Do you remember when our love was innocent?" serves as a powerful refrain, evoking a longing for the past when love felt pure and uncomplicated. This nostalgia is contrasted with the present reality, where the love that once brought joy now feels dangerous, as expressed in the line, "This kinda love is gonna get us killed." The song captures the tension between holding onto cherished memories and facing the harsh truths of a relationship that has evolved into something more complex and potentially destructive.

Clifford's lyrics also touch on the theme of time, with lines like "Tryna fit forever into minutes," suggesting the fleeting nature of moments and the desire to hold onto them. The song reflects on how love can change over time, becoming a "victim of the new," where the initial innocence is lost, and the lovers are conditioned to return to each other despite the pain. Ultimately, "Remember When" is a heartfelt meditation on love's duality, where the past and present collide, leaving the listener to ponder the delicate balance between memory and reality.