Meaning of "Do You Know" by Tirzah

In "Do You Know," Tirzah captures the complex emotions that arise after a breakup or the end of a relationship. The song portrays a speaker who is caught between wanting to forget and move on, and simultaneously feeling the pull and nostalgia of the past. The repetition of the phrase "Do you know" emphasizes the lingering thoughts of the ex-partner and the speaker's confusion about their own feelings. It suggests that despite the desire to let go and be alone, there is still a deep attachment and longing for the person they were once connected to.

The lyrics also touch upon themes of pride and independence. The speaker expresses their refusal to beg for the person to come back, highlighting a sense of self-respect and not wanting to compromise their own integrity. However, there is an acknowledgement that their pride may be preventing them from reaching out and expressing their true feelings. This internal struggle is reflected in the line "I don't get into begging, to make me want me back," indicating a fear of vulnerability and a desire to protect themselves from potential rejection.

The line "Sometimes it's like I never even knew you" suggests a sense of disbelief and disillusionment. It hints at a realization that the person the speaker once knew is no longer the same, or perhaps that they never truly knew them at all. This sentiment is juxtaposed with moments of clarity, where the speaker acknowledges that they have moved on and feel good about it, only to be quickly pulled back into thoughts of the person, as expressed by the line "all it takes is just a second, and there you are, in front of me."

The chorus of the song shifts the focus to the future, with the repetition of "Be alone" serving as a declaration of independence and a desire to find oneself again. The speaker expresses the hope that they will be fine if the person they once knew moves on and finds someone else, further emphasizing the difficult process of letting go and moving forward. The final line, "I was never tryin' be cold but I'm sure you knew I could be without you," suggests a mix of emotions, revealing both a sense of strength and resilience, as well as a lingering attachment to the past.

Overall, "Do You Know" explores the complexities of post-breakup emotions, examining the conflicting desires to move on, maintain independence, and yet also hold on to the memories and feelings associated with the past.