Meaning of "Around U" by Muna

The lyrics of "Around U" convey a sense of personal growth and empowerment after a breakup or the end of a significant relationship. The narrator begins by acknowledging their tendency to make plans and then contradicting themselves, highlighting the irony in their actions. They express humility and vulnerability as they confront the passing of time, which has brought them to their knees.

The mention of an "Arizona half and half" and a "half pack of cigarettes" paints a picture of suburban life, possibly symbolizing the mundane routine and emptiness that once surrounded the relationship. The vacant lot represents the narrator's mind, filled with tangled thoughts and emotions. They long for the comfort and stability of their faith (represented by "my God") that they hope to regain in this familiar suburban setting.

As the song progresses, the narrator realizes that something significant has occurred that has caused a profound change in their outlook. They feel this shift in the atmosphere and recognize the falseness of what once seemed true. They finally come to the realization that they no longer revolve their life around this person, conveying a sense of liberation and independence.

The second verse delves deeper into the narrator's emotions and memories. The mention of the house that still stands and the candle in the bedroom suggests a nostalgic visit to the past. An altar, once sacred, is now dead, signifying the end of the romantic and deeply personal connection they once shared. The person they were once deeply intertwined with has now become only a friend.

The chorus repeats the idea that something massive has happened, impacting both the narrator and their environment. The use of the word "civilian" suggests a sense of vulnerability as they try to navigate through a world that feels wrong and out of sync. They struggle to find understanding and connection amidst this chaos.

The bridge reveals the internal conflict within the narrator. They acknowledge that everything they had built in this relationship was based on love but admit that their perspective has shifted. The paradigm they once believed in has changed, and they question how they can apologize when their words no longer hold the same weight. Doubt and frustration linger as they realize that their words may not be enough to convince the other person to believe them and understand their growth.

Ultimately, the song highlights the narrator's journey towards finding their own identity separate from this past relationship. They have moved beyond revolving their life around someone else and have embraced their own personal growth and independence.