Meaning of "That washed off the world, the streets looking brand new"

In the song titled "Abstract (Psychopomp)" by Hozier, the lyrics explore deep emotions and reflections on life, love, and the passage of time. The overall themes of the song revolve around introspection, the transient nature of existence, and the juxtaposition of moments of beauty and darkness.The specific line that states, "That washed off the world, the streets looking brand new" evokes vivid imagery and symbolism, contributing to the development of several unexpected and imaginative themes within the song.Firstly, this line conveys the transformative power of love or a significant experience. It suggests that the presence of someone special or a memorable event can cleanse the world, washing away the mundane or negative aspects of life. The streets looking "brand new" symbolize a fresh start, a renewed perspective, or a sense of rebirth.Furthermore, this line can be interpreted as a reflection on the fleeting nature of joy and happiness. Just like rain that eventually dries up, the lyric suggests that moments of bliss are transient. The image of the streets looking brand new indicates an ephemeral state of perfection that is bound to fade away.Additionally, the line can be seen as an exploration of how one's perception can shape their reality. The idea that something has the power to wash off the world suggests that our interpretation of the world can change based on our experiences and the lens through which we view it. It prompts us to question how our perceptions influence our understanding of reality.Moreover, the concept of the streets looking brand new can be seen as a metaphor for the potential to find beauty and hope in unexpected places. It challenges the notion that beauty only exists in pristine or untouched environments. Instead, it encourages us to seek beauty amidst imperfections, finding solace and renewal in unlikely circumstances.Ultimately, these imaginative themes tie back to the overarching theme of the song, which is the exploration of life's transient nature and the profound impact that certain moments or individuals can have on our existence. Whether it is through the transformative power of love, the fleeting nature of joy, the malleability of perception, or the discovery of beauty in unexpected places, "That washed off the world, the streets looking brand new" evokes a multitude of imaginative dimensions while still contributing to the central themes of the song.