I've Seen It
Olivia Dean
The Elusive Nature of Love: A Journey Through Time and Emotion
Olivia Dean's song "I've Seen It" is a poignant exploration of the multifaceted nature of love, capturing its enduring presence and elusive qualities. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of love's journey through time, from its blossoming moments to its inevitable end in tears. Dean reflects on witnessing love in various settings, such as after school, in the park, and even on public transport, highlighting its omnipresence in everyday life. This portrayal suggests that love is a constant, yet ever-changing force that we encounter in different forms and places.
The song delves into the complexities of understanding love, acknowledging that it can bring out both the best and worst in people. Dean's lyrics express a sense of confusion and acceptance, as she admits to understanding love less and less over time. This sentiment resonates with the universal experience of grappling with love's unpredictable nature. The mention of love being "laced in every song" and the struggle to articulate its essence underscores the difficulty of capturing its true meaning, despite its pervasive influence in art and life.
Dean also touches on the cyclical nature of love, observing how it grows old, fades, and is eventually rediscovered by others. The references to films, books, and her parents' relationship suggest that love is a timeless narrative, passed down through generations. The song concludes with a realization that love is an intrinsic part of oneself, residing "somewhere in my chest." This introspective moment emphasizes the idea that love is not only an external experience but also an internal journey of self-discovery and connection.