Meaning of "Old Tears" by Ilse DeLange

"Old Tears" delves into the complex emotions that linger after a heartbreak, highlighting the struggle to appear strong in the face of pain while battling inner turmoil. The persona in the song grapples with the idea of vulnerability and acknowledges the necessity of releasing pent-up emotions to truly move on. The repeated mention of "old tears" signifies the lasting impact of past wounds, suggesting that healing requires confronting and processing the pain rather than burying it deep inside. The lyrics speak to the universal experience of carrying emotional baggage from past relationships and the difficulty of fully letting go. By embracing the act of crying as a form of catharsis, the protagonist embraces their own humanity and allows themselves to grieve openly, ultimately reaching a place of acceptance and healing.