Meaning of "Past Life" by Tame Impala

"Past Life" delves into the complexities of nostalgia and unresolved feelings from a past romantic connection. The song opens with the narrator going about their routine, picking up a suit from the dry cleaners. However, a chance encounter with the reflection of a figure in the rearview mirror disrupts their sense of normalcy. This sighting triggers a flood of memories and emotions tied to a lover from a past life. The lyrics suggest that the relationship was somewhere between being a lover and a friend, describing it as surreal and poetic, but also pointing to a confusing end.

The narrator admits to having shut down and closed off these memories, using distractions to block out regrets. However, the encounter with the reflection brings everything rushing back. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning and curiosity about the possibility of reconnection. The narrator questions their ability to move on, realizing that they may have only been switching off their emotions rather than truly letting go. The mundane nature of their current life is contrasted with the intensity and depth of the past relationship.

The song ends with the narrator contemplating reaching out to their past love, acknowledging that they don't even know if they have the same phone number. Despite the uncertainty, they express a willingness to try, questioning the harm in doing so. The lyrics convey the internal struggle between wanting to preserve the past and embracing the present.