Meaning of "Are You Okay?" by Winnetka Bowling League

The song "Are You Okay?" by Winnetka Bowling League explores the aftermath of a past relationship and the lingering thoughts and emotions that come with it. The narrator begins by acknowledging their role in the deterioration of the relationship, feeling a sense of responsibility for the other person appearing older than they remember. They question how the other person is coping with the pain and challenges of life, wondering if it even matters to them. The reference to "illusion that's no angels" suggests that the narrator has lost faith in the idea of divine intervention or guidance. It highlights the absence of miracles or saviors that could alleviate their pain. Despite this, they still hope the other person can find some solace and breath of relief.

The lyrics speak to the narrator's struggle with not truly knowing or understanding the other person. The line "And don't know was the answer to think that I could really know much of anything about, anything look" expresses their realization that they may have been misguided in thinking they knew the other person deeply. The uncertainty and lack of knowledge weigh heavily on the narrator's mind.

The second verse delves into the difficulty of moving on and letting go. The idea that "an empty cup can fill another" suggests that the narrator knows they should be able to find love elsewhere, but they struggle with the process. Memories of the relationship and the feeling of playing house in the apartment they shared continue to haunt them. The mentioning of a new boyfriend and the knowledge that they still hold significance in the other person's life further complicates their ability to move on. They question if the new boyfriend truly understands the depth of their past connection.

The third verse introduces a different perspective, focusing on the other person's journey and growth. The image of a child on an airplane represents their sense of freedom and exploration. The mention of New York as a place to escape to suggests that the other person sought new experiences and a fresh start. They transformed their appearance to become someone unrecognizable, potentially to distance themselves from the narrator and the past.

In the final chorus, the narrator decides it's time to let go and leave the past behind. They acknowledge that someone else can hold the other person's waist and fulfill their role in their life. However, the nostalgia remains as they acknowledge that their relationship was never as perfect as the other person's memories replay. The song ends with the narrator questioning how the other person will respond when asked if they are okay, emphasizing the ongoing concern and longing for their well-being.