Meaning of "Were Before" by Cults

The lyrics of "Were Before" by Cults convey themes of nostalgia, longing for the past, and the desire to preserve a familiar and comfortable relationship. The narrator meets someone on the sidewalk, highlighting the randomness and unpredictability of life. They express a hope that the person they encounter is unchanged from how they remember them before. This reflects human nature's tendency to seek comfort in familiarity and past experiences. The small talk they engage in suggests an attempt to recreate the connection they once shared, trying to bridge the gap between their current reality and the past they long for.

The narrator encourages the other person not to give up on the things they both adore, indicating shared interests and the importance of preserving them. This highlights the desire to hold onto the aspects of the relationship that were meaningful and enjoyable before, creating a sense of stability and continuity. The repetition of "Just the way were before" emphasizes this longing to rekindle the past and recreate the relationship's former dynamics. There is a recognition that both parties need to put effort into making things work, indicating that the relationship requires active participation and dedication.

The lyrics describe the narrator's observations of the other person, noting their familiar walk and newfound confidence. The phrase "Skipping all the cracks on the concrete" suggests a sense of optimism and resilience in the face of challenges. Together, they have encountered obstacles but have managed to overcome them, symbolized by chasing away the cobwebs and winding up old clocks. This reinforces the idea that through shared effort and determination, they can maintain the strength and continuity of their connection.

The repetition of "You can't fix that" in the final lines adds a bittersweet tone to the song. It suggests that despite the desire to recreate the past and preserve the relationship, there are some things that cannot be repaired or changed. This may allude to the inevitability of change, the passage of time, or the recognition that certain aspects of the relationship may be irretrievable. It serves as a reminder that while they can work on improving the relationship and recreating the past to some extent, there are limitations to what can be accomplished.

In essence, "Were Before" explores the human desire for familiarity, the importance of shared interests, and the longing to preserve a relationship's positive aspects. It acknowledges the need for active effort, highlights resilience in the face of challenges, and presents the bittersweet nature of nostalgia and the passage of time.