Meaning of "What Now" by Rihanna

"What Now" by Rihanna delves into the singer's internal struggle to comprehend her feelings and find clarity in her life. The opening lines depict the singer attempting to ignore her emotions, as she believes tears are a sign of weakness. She emphasizes her strength and growth, but there is still a void within her. The use of the two-sided mirror metaphor highlights how she feels like her emotions are mocking her, constantly present but detached from her reality. The frustration and desperation to release these emotions is evident in her desire to scream.

The song also touches upon her relationship experiences. Rihanna finds someone who she believes has changed her life, but questions if it was her who changed rather than the other person. This ambiguity further adds to her confusion and emotional turmoil. She longs to be in love, yet feels numb and disconnected. The repetition of the question "What now?" showcases her search for answers and a way forward.

Rihanna's feelings of isolation are emphasized in the line "There's no one to call 'cause I'm just playing games with them all." She acknowledges her own role in the game of relationships and how it leaves her feeling alone. The more she tries to convince herself and others of her happiness, the more she feels isolated. She describes going through the motions, highlighting her robotic and emotionless state. This inability to express her true emotions leads her to feel dry and devoid of any feeling.

The song concludes with Rihanna's desperate plea for guidance and understanding. She admits her confusion, not knowing where to go or what to feel. The repetition of "I don't know ow ow why" intensifies her frustration and desperation for answers. The final repetition of "So what now?" signifies her ongoing search for resolution and her acceptance of the unknown.

Overall, "What Now" explores themes of self-reflection, emotional confusion, loneliness, and the quest for clarity. It showcases the internal battle Rihanna faces as she tries to comprehend her own emotions and find a sense of direction in her life and relationships.