Meaning of "As It Is When It Was" by New Order

The lyrics of "As It Is When It Was" by New Order touch upon themes of unrequited love, disillusionment, and introspection. The speaker seems to be grappling with the disappointment of a relationship that didn't turn out as expected. They express a longing for a deep connection, symbolized by the metaphor of getting along "like a house on fire," but come to the realization that the other person is not as invested. This leads the speaker to feel detached and emotionally numb, as evidenced by the lines "I don't feel anything no more" and "I feel no pain and I feel no joy." The mention of walking alone in empty streets suggests a sense of isolation and abandonment. The reference to intellectual songs of love and the dangers of believing in false narratives alludes to the disillusionment that can come from idealized perceptions of relationships. Overall, the lyrics capture a poignant sense of lost expectations, unfulfilled desires, and the harsh realities of love.