Meaning of "Outro" by Muna

In "Outro," Muna explores the emotional complexities of a relationship that has left the narrator feeling hurt and neglected. The repetition of "What happened then, happened then" and "There's no use in recap" suggests that the past is done and there is no point in dwelling on it. The narrator acknowledges that their partner claimed to have given their best, signaling that they might have reached a breaking point.

The line "But how long do you plan to keep me in the back of your mind" reveals the narrator's longing for their partner to prioritize them and give them the attention they deserve. They question if their partner plans to keep them in the shadows indefinitely, remaining a mere afterthought. There is a sense of frustration and a desire for change.

The narrator's emotional turmoil is evident with the poignant line "I start to cry." It signifies their vulnerability and the pain caused by the actions of their partner. The next line, "You're reaching out, I let you in, you're leaving now," highlights a cycle of hurt and disappointment. The narrator feels the sting of rejection as their partner once again withdraws, leaving them feeling abandoned.

Despite the hurt, there is a glimmer of hope expressed with the line "I scream, 'This is not the end!'" It is a plea for their partner to recognize the impact of their actions and to choose a different path. The narrator's defiance against the notion of an ending shows their resilience and refusal to let go completely.

The lyrics continue with a back-and-forth dialogue, where the narrator states, "You hurt me cause you should" while acknowledging that they still hold on to a belief in the relationship's potential. They say, "We'll try it how you thought we could," indicating a willingness to give things another chance. The partner finally admits, "You were right," perhaps signaling a moment of reflection and understanding.

In essence, the lyrics of "Outro" delve into the rollercoaster of emotions one experiences in a tumultuous relationship. The song captures the feelings of hurt, longing, frustration, and resilience that come with navigating love's complexities. It is a reflection on the challenges of holding on to hope while grappling with the pain caused by a partner's actions.