Meaning of "Better Now" by Cloves

The lyrics of "Better Now" dive into the emotions and complexities of a troubled relationship. The song begins with a sense of relief when the narrator's partner leaves, giving them a brief moment of happiness and freedom from the relationship's conflicts. However, this moment of peace also brings the realization that their time together is limited and will not last. The line "Then our time has passed, Now it won't last" indicates that the relationship is coming to an end, and the narrator feels like they are not making any progress in their situation.

The chorus explores the theme of finding peace within oneself. The narrator acknowledges that peace comes and goes, and their actions and reactions contribute to the cycle of turbulence in the relationship. They reflect on the self-destructive nature of their behavior, stating "Start with a kiss, End with a fight." Despite recognizing their own flaws and the negative impact they have had on the relationship, the narrator asserts that they have "lost [their] head." This can be interpreted as a metaphor for losing control over their emotions or actions.

The repeated phrase "And I'll leave, But I swear that I'm better now" suggests that the narrator is ready to move on from the relationship and make positive changes in their life. The decision to leave may be driven by a sense of self-awareness that they are not good enough or that they are too much for their partner to handle. By acknowledging their flaws and the need for personal growth, the narrator expresses their desire to improve their own well-being.

The bridge section of the song introduces a moment of confrontation and outburst. The narrator's partner has seemingly criticized their behavior, prompting an angry response. The line "Burn your pictures, outburst" suggests an act of defiance and frustration, while the phrase "I'm loving the way you acting tough" highlights the power dynamics and challenges within the relationship.

In the end, the chorus is repeated, emphasizing the narrator's determination to leave and the belief that they have become better now. Overall, "Better Now" explores the complexities of a troubled relationship, self-reflection, and personal growth.