Bad Blood

Nao's song 'Bad Blood' delves into the complexities of a relationship that has soured over time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a once-beautiful connection, likened to a holiday or a refreshing drink, that has now turned bitter. The imagery of 'a glass of ocean slipping down my throat' and 'drinking lime and bitter from my lemonade' suggests a mix of pleasure and pain, highlighting the duality of their past experiences. The use of 'holy days' and 'white horses' evokes a sense of nostalgia and longing for a time when things were simpler and more joyful.

The chorus, with its repetitive assertion of 'bad bad blood,' underscores the realization that the relationship is tainted. The phrase 'bad blood' itself is a powerful metaphor for the underlying issues and unresolved conflicts that have poisoned their bond. The lyrics 'dreaming of a past that couldn't last' and 'now we're changing, refraining' reflect a sense of loss and the inevitable changes that come with time. The song captures the emotional turmoil of holding onto memories while recognizing that the relationship has fundamentally changed.

Nao's soulful voice and the song's melancholic melody further amplify the sense of heartache and introspection. The lines 'my head's now afloat but my heart's drowning boats of you' poignantly express the internal conflict between moving on and being weighed down by lingering feelings. The song's exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time resonates deeply, making 'Bad Blood' a powerful reflection on the complexities of human relationships.