Meaning of "Ghost" by Ella Henderson

The lyrics of "Ghost" explore the aftermath of a failed relationship and the emotional impact it has on the narrator. The river serves as a symbol of purification and healing, a place she goes to pray in search of relief from her pain. The phrase "wash off the pain" suggests that she is seeking something that can cleanse her of the lingering feelings and memories associated with her past love. However, even in her sleep, she is haunted by the ghost of her ex-partner, suggesting that the emotional wounds from the relationship are deep and pervasive. This ghost symbolizes the lingering presence and influence that the person has over her life, not allowing her to fully move on.

The lyrics also allude to the narrator's friends having insight into the true nature of her ex-partner, seeing the "evil" that was hidden beneath the surface. This highlights the theme of deception in the relationship, as the ex-partner tries to hide their true self. The line "Bright light living in the shade" suggests that the ex-partner appeared innocent or good on the surface but had a darker and colder heart. This realization causes the narrator's spirit to shake, indicating the emotional toll the relationship took on her.

The lyrics further convey the narrator's realization that love can be painful and that she has endured hardships in order to prove her sanity and worth. She had to go through "hell" and meet the "devil" to understand the true nature of love's pain. Despite this, her love for her ex-partner continues to burn. This portrays a conflicted state of mind, where the narrator is torn between the desire to let go and the lingering attachment she feels toward her ex-partner.

Overall, "Ghost" explores themes of heartbreak, deception, and the struggle to move on from a toxic relationship. It delves into the emotions of pain, longing, and the haunting presence of a past love, ultimately depicting the narrator's ongoing battle with her own emotions and the desire to find solace.