Meaning of What Would It Take by Chelsea Cutler

The overall theme of Chelsea Cutler's song 'What Would It Take' centers around heartbreak and longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the aftermath of a breakup, where the protagonist is left feeling devastated and confused. Through introspective and emotional verses, Cutler conveys the pain of losing someone and the lengths she would go to in order to make them come back.One standout lyric in the song is "Didn't say why you're leaving, yeah, we just hit a wall". This line explores the theme of miscommunication and unspoken feelings within a relationship. It suggests that the downfall of the relationship was abrupt and unexpected, as if hitting a wall out of nowhere. This lyric speaks to the idea that sometimes, we overlook the warning signs and fail to address underlying issues until it's too late.Another lyric that stands out is "Listening to old calls back when you would call me just to talk for hours". This line touches on the theme of nostalgia and the longing for connection. It symbolizes the desire to go back to a time when things were simpler and to recapture the depth of the conversations they once shared. It also highlights the importance of meaningful communication in a relationship, as the protagonist yearns for those long conversations that once made her feel loved and understood.One imaginative theme that emerges from the lyrics is the concept of time standing still. The line "I don't think it's normal to be on the floor still, shaking from the shower" suggests that the breakup has left the protagonist in a state of paralysis. Time seems to have frozen, as she is unable to move forward, trapped in the pain of the past. This theme reflects the intensity of heartbreak and the struggle to heal, as even mundane activities like taking a shower become overwhelming reminders of loss.Another imaginative theme that can be derived from the lyrics is the idea of self-blame and self-doubt. The line "Like it'll bring you home, but we both know it won't" illustrates the internal battle between rationality and irrational hope. It speaks to the tendency to blame oneself for the end of a relationship, questioning what could have been done differently. This theme explores the complex emotions of guilt, regret, and the difficulties of moving on when one's heart is still clinging to what was lost.Furthermore, the lyric "Yeah, my heart is beating out of my body, because I'm hurting and I need somebody" reveals the theme of dependency and the desperate need for emotional support. It conveys the vulnerable state of the protagonist, who craves love and validation in order to heal. This theme underscores the importance of human connection and the healing power of others' presence in times of heartbreak.In summary, Chelsea Cutler's song 'What Would It Take' delves into the emotional aftermath of a breakup, exploring themes of miscommunication, nostalgia, time standing still, self-blame, and dependency. Through carefully crafted lyrics, Cutler captures the raw emotions associated with heartbreak and the complexities of moving on. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the pain and longing that often accompany the end of a relationship, while also hinting at the importance of self-care and the healing power of human connection.