Meaning of "Istanbul" by New Politics

The lyrics of "Istanbul" by New Politics speak to the universal experience of heartbreak and the journey towards healing and renewal. The imagery of picking up the pieces of a broken heart and stitching them back together emphasizes the idea of starting fresh after going through emotional turmoil. The encouragement to live each day as if it were the last night and to embrace the unknown before taking flight highlights the importance of living in the present and being open to new experiences. The repeated mention of a street in Istanbul where trees have lost their leaves and shelter is found from the rain represents a metaphorical safe haven where moments of beauty and solace are discovered amidst life's challenges. The idea of never winning but never truly losing suggests the resilience and strength that come from difficult experiences, and the memories of something beautiful underscore the notion that even in hardship, there are moments of grace and loveliness to hold onto.