Meaning of "Aftershock" by Van Halen

The lyrics of "Aftershock" delve into the aftermath of a failed relationship and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. The persona conveys a sense of maturity and acceptance towards the situation, choosing to focus on their feelings rather than dwelling on the past. The repetition of phrases like "it ain't gonna change overnight" and "livin' with the aftershock" emphasizes the lingering impact of the breakup and the need to come to terms with it. Despite the initial heartache and surprise at the breakup, the persona eventually learns to cope with the aftershocks and acknowledges that change won't happen without a struggle. Overall, the lyrics capture the bittersweet journey of moving on from a past relationship and finding strength in facing the emotional aftermath.