Meaning of "Begin Again" by Andy Shauf

The lyrics of "Begin Again" delve into the complexities of relationships, particularly focusing on the themes of starting over and deceit. The repetition of the phrase "begin again" suggests a desire to reset or start anew, perhaps fueled by dissatisfaction or a need for change. The protagonist urges someone to take a bow at the very end, indicating a sense of performative nature in their actions or behavior. It's possible that this person enjoys the attention and drama that comes with their romantic entanglements.

The mention of being the leading man in a film alludes to a sense of control or power held by this person in their relationships. They have the ability to decide the outcome, referred to as the end of the world, whenever they choose. This could imply that their actions have significant consequences and may affect the emotions and lives of others involved.

The lyrics also reveal a sense of frustration and jealousy within the protagonist. They acknowledge their partner's infidelity, nonchalantly stating that they don't care about their lover's affairs with someone named Sherry. However, the protagonist emphasizes that the person their partner found is the one they need, suggesting a deeper desire for commitment and exclusivity.

The line "A brilliant light will dissolve us all" introduces a sense of impending doom or tragedy. It's as if the protagonist believes that their actions and relationships are ultimately insignificant in the face of this looming catastrophe. This could mirror a fear of a world-ending event or a metaphorical representation of the consequences of their deceptive actions coming to light and causing greater harm.

In the later part of the song, the protagonist listens to someone else speak their mind after consuming alcohol, indicating a sense of vulnerability and honesty. They express a frustration with the size of the city they live in, feeling as though it's too small to avoid overlapping with others and the complications that come with it. This further emphasizes the tangled web of relationships and the difficulties of finding genuine connections within a chaotic and interconnected world.

The song concludes with the protagonist engaging in introspection, questioning who their loved one is thinking of. This line suggests a persistent sense of uncertainty and insecurity within the protagonist, perhaps fueling their longing and frustration.

Overall, "Begin Again" delves into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of starting over, deceit, and the looming presence of the end. It showcases the protagonist's yearning for a genuine connection and their struggle with the performative nature of their partner's actions, ultimately leading to feelings of frustration, jealousy, and uncertainty.