Meaning of "Supposed To Be" by Tom Odell

The lyrics of "Supposed To Be" delve into the complexities of love and the aftermath of a breakup. The song captures the raw emotions experienced by the narrator after the end of a relationship. The rooftop where they sit becomes a metaphorical space for self-reflection and contemplation. Watching the birds fly, the clouds move, and the rain become the sea represents the passing of time and the inevitability of change. The narrator recalls the moments when they believed that their love was meant to be, but now they are faced with the reality of the break-up.

The lyrics also express the narrator's struggle to accept that their former partner has moved on and found a new boyfriend. They can't help but feel a sense of bitterness, thinking that it happened too quickly and that their previous love was not as strong. This highlights the painful truth that things don't always turn out as expected in relationships.

The repeated questions about the skyline, falls, and roads demonstrate the narrator's search for direction and purpose after the heartbreak. They are unsure of how many more setbacks they will face before finding their own happiness and freedom. The mention of love being unkind suggests that despite the desire for love and connection, it can often bring pain and disappointment.

In the final verse, the narrator returns to the rooftop but experiences a moment of liberation and release from societal expectations. They feel free from the burden of what they are supposed to be or supposed to feel. This momentary freedom serves as a glimpse of hope and personal growth, as they begin to grapple with the complexities of love and find strength in individuality.

Overall, "Supposed To Be" explores the pain of heartbreak, the lingering longing for a lost love, and the search for self-discovery and acceptance in the aftermath of a failed relationship. It portrays the conflicting emotions one faces when love doesn't meet our expectations and how finding liberation from these expectations can lead to personal growth and resilience.