Meaning of "Better" by Ben Platt
In "Better," Ben Platt explores the aftermath of a breakup, delving into the emotions of longing, confusion, and self-discovery. The speaker begins by expressing uncertainty about whether the person they lost is listening or wants to hear from them. They acknowledge the difficulty of pretending to be happy alone and feeling incomplete without the other person. With the loss of the relationship, the speaker feels lost within themselves.
The chorus reveals the speaker's struggle to let go and move on. They don't want to appear weak or vulnerable by crawling back to the person, yet they find themselves falling back into old patterns. The speaker wonders if the person still has their belongings, like a sweater, and if they ever read the heartfelt letter they wrote. These questions highlight the speaker's desire for connection and understanding.
The bridge of the song emphasizes the speaker's belief that they are not done with the relationship. The other person holds a lock on the things they desire, leaving the speaker feeling lost and lonely. The absence of physical affection intensifies their feelings of longing. However, the speaker also acknowledges that it was their own fault for not preserving a part of themselves throughout the relationship.
The final repetition of the chorus implies that the speaker is still reaching out, even if indirectly. They question if the other person knows them better than they know themselves, suggesting that the relationship had a profound impact on their self-perception. The mention of writing a song for the person signifies the speaker's attempt to express their feelings and bridge the emotional gap.
Overall, "Better" explores the complexities of a post-breakup emotional landscape. It delves into the deep longing and self-reflection that comes from losing a significant connection. The lyrics capture the speaker's yearning for understanding and their struggle to let go, ultimately questioning who knows them better—the other person or themselves.
