Meaning of "Nola 1" by PVRIS

The lyrics of "Nola 1" delve into the emotions and aftermath of a significant event that has caused a profound change in the speaker's life. The picture frames hanging differently symbolize the disorientation and disruption brought about by this event. The bittersweet reminders of their life before the event serve as a contrast to their current state. The mention of last June and the feeling of impending death indicate that the event had a significant impact on the speaker's physical and mental well-being. They were haunted throughout the year, experiencing a sense of mortality and uncertainty.

The constant refrain of "You keep on saying that I've changed" highlights the external judgment and observations of others regarding the speaker's transformation. This suggests that the event not only affected the speaker internally but had visible effects on their demeanor and behavior. The speaker acknowledges this change, admitting that they don't seem quite the same, but they remain uncertain about where they went wrong.

The white room and the mirror symbolize self-reflection and introspection. The speaker questions whether the mirror sees their shame or reveals a different perspective. This implies a struggle with self-perception and a desire for understanding. The mention of the painted baby blue ceiling on the porch alludes to a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of an early afternoon sky. The midnight references and the mention of ghosts coming soon add an eerie ambiance and a hint of impending darkness or uncertainty.

Despite the confusion and uncertainty, the speaker finds solace in singing. It becomes their way of processing their emotions, searching for answers, and finding some form of catharsis. The act of singing becomes a means to reclaim their sense of self and understand the changes that have occurred. It serves as an outlet for their emotions and a way to express the complexity of their experiences.

The overall meaning of "Nola 1" revolves around the themes of change, loss, self-reflection, and the search for understanding. It explores the profound impact of a significant event on an individual's life, examining the internal and external effects of that event. The lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences of change and transformation, as well as the challenges of navigating through uncertainty and finding their way back to themselves.