Start

The song "Start" by The Neighbourhood delves into the complexities and vulnerabilities inherent in romantic relationships. The lyrics express a deep sense of uncertainty and fear of causing emotional pain to a loved one. The repeated line "I don't even know where to start" highlights the speaker's struggle to find the right words or actions to mend or maintain the relationship. This uncertainty is compounded by the acknowledgment of personal responsibility in making things difficult, as the speaker admits to being the one who "keeps making it hard."

The imagery in the song paints a vivid picture of emotional turmoil. References to "crash out," "black out," and "pass out" suggest moments of intense emotional overwhelm, while the setting of a "glass house" on a "grass hill" with a "pebble beach in the background" evokes a sense of fragility and transparency. This setting serves as a metaphor for the delicate nature of the relationship, where every action and word is visible and potentially damaging. The line "nothing hurts more than the truth" underscores the painful reality that honesty, while necessary, can also be the source of heartache.

The Neighbourhood's signature style, characterized by moody, atmospheric soundscapes, complements the introspective and emotional depth of the lyrics. The song captures the universal experience of grappling with the fear of hurting someone you care about, while also confronting the truth of one's own shortcomings. It speaks to the human desire to protect loved ones from pain, even when one's own actions are the source of that pain.