Meaning of "New" by Ben Platt

The lyrics of this song delve into the emotions and growth experienced after a breakup. The singer appears to have been deeply hurt in the past, as they mention crying over the person they were with. However, now that the relationship is over, they feel a sense of liberation and weightlessness. They express the desire to leave the past behind and embrace a fresh start, vowing to never return to the heartache of their past self. The lyrics also touch upon the process of healing and self-improvement. The singer mentions working hard and discarding reminders of the past, symbolized by burning the letters. All the time that was spent dwelling on the pain is now easier to forget, and they have emerged on the other side feeling better than ever. The references to leaving their virtue and favorite shoes behind in their former partner's room, and not wanting them back, highlight the sense of detachment and the abandonment of old parts of themselves. The repetition of "new" throughout the song reinforces the theme of renewal and starting afresh. Overall, the lyrics of "New" convey a powerful message about finding strength, growth, and self-discovery after overcoming the pain of a past relationship.