Meaning of As It Was by Hozier

As a Hozier fan, I am always fascinated by the depth and complexity of his lyrics. Each song is like a story unfolding, revealing layers of emotion and thought-provoking themes. One of Hozier's enchanting tracks, "As It Was," is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores the complexities of love, the struggle between light and darkness, and the significance of personal transformation. Let's dive into the themes of this mesmerizing composition and unravel its poetic brilliance.The song opens with the line, "There is a roadway, muddy, and foxgloved." This imagery immediately transports us into a world characterized by a sense of uncertainty and natural beauty. The roadway symbolizes the journey we must traverse, muddy and imperfect, while the foxgloved color the path with a mix of danger and enchantment. This lyric sets the stage for the overarching theme of the song - the exploration of the different facets of love and how it transforms us."As It Was" also delves into the dissonance caused by the intrusion of the "otherness" into a relationship. This is highlighted in the chorus, where Hozier sings, "Before the otherness came, and I knew its name, the drug, the dark, the light, the flame." Here, the "otherness" represents external influences that disrupt the harmony within a connection. It signifies the inevitable challenges that arise in relationships and how they influence our perception of love.Within the interplay between the otherness and the purity of love, specific lines serve as standout lyrics that help to develop various themes. For instance, Hozier sings, "The highs hit the heights of my baby, and its hold had the fight of my baby." This line presents the conflicting emotions experienced when love is at its peak. It conveys the intensity and determination that love possesses, able to uplift and empower a person while simultaneously challenging them to confront their deepest fears.Another significant lyric that beautifully contributes to the song's themes is, "But your love was unmoved." This line symbolizes the unwavering nature of true love, tethered to its essence even amidst the storms and chaos of life. It portrays a love that remains steadfast, unyielding, and unshakable, even when faced with trials and tribulations.The song progresses, and Hozier continues to weave a mesmerizing tapestry of emotions through his lyrics. He urges his lover to reveal their feelings, asking, "Make your good love known to me or just tell me 'bout your day." Here, the theme of vulnerability emerges, emphasizing the importance of open communication and the sharing of one's innermost desires. Hozier invites his partner to express their emotions, allowing a sense of intimacy and understanding to flourish.Moving to the chorus, Hozier proclaims, "The drug, the dark, the light, the shame," encapsulating the dichotomy found within relationships. Love has the power to intoxicate, enlighten, and shame, representing the contrasting emotions one can experience when deeply connected to another soul. It is within this contrast that the magic of love truly resides.Throughout "As It Was," Hozier masterfully captures the monumental transformation love can bring. One line that encapsulates this transformation is, "And the sights were as stark as my baby, and the cold cut as sharp as my baby." This lyric signifies the profound impact love can have on our perception of the world. It reveals how love can unfold new depths within our own selves and how it can shape our experiences, both joyously vibrant and achingly raw.Lastly, the song takes a poignant turn when Hozier sings, "And half as beautiful too." This line reminds us that love can also be bittersweet – as captivating as it is painful. It acknowledges the inherent existence of both beauty and hardship within the realm of love. It speaks to the delicate balance in relationships, where the presence of darkness only heightens the significance and beauty of the light.In conclusion, "As It Was" offers a profound exploration of love's complexities, delving into the realities of relationships, vulnerability, transformation, and the delicate dance between light and darkness. Each lyric contributes to the overarching theme, showcasing the multidimensional nature of love. Hozier's lyrical brilliance allows listeners to reflect on their own experiences, finding solace in the shared human experience of love's journey. Through each verse and chorus, "As It Was" captivates our hearts and stimulates our minds, inviting us to explore the intricacies of love and personal growth.