Meaning of "Those Sweet Words" by Norah Jones

In "Those Sweet Words," Norah Jones explores the power of words to bring comfort and solace. The speaker's repeated question, "What did you say?", suggests a deep longing for meaningful communication. However, the lyrics also convey a sense of frustration or difficulty in fully comprehending these words due to external distractions ("my ears won't stop ringing") or perhaps emotional barriers. This desire for connection is emphasized by the comparison of love to a "lost balloon," an image that suggests something fragile and transient. The speaker seeks validation and reassurance from the person they address, as demonstrated by their relief at seeing them again and their eagerness to hear their "sweet words." The repetition of the phrase "spoken like a melody" reinforces the idea that these words carry a soothing quality, a musical element that can calm and uplift. Ultimately, the song portrays the universal longing for meaningful communication and the need for words that bring comfort and understanding.