Meaning of As It Is When It Was by New Order

The New Order song "As It Is When It Was" takes listeners on a poetic journey that explores various themes of introspection, relationships, and self-reflection. The lyrics are filled with thought-provoking lines that provide glimpses into the human experience, inviting interpretation and reflection. Throughout the song, the themes of longing, the passage of time, and the search for identity emerge, offering listeners layers of depth and meaning.One standout lyric that captures the essence of the song is, "I've kept my head against the wall." This line speaks to the feeling of being stuck or trapped in a situation. It evokes a sense of frustration and yearning for change or progress. The overarching theme that emerges is the struggle to break free from personal constraints and the desire for growth and transformation.The lyrics, "Well, I always thought we'd get along like a house on fire," present a dual theme. On the surface, it expresses a longing for a close relationship, an anticipation of deep connection and harmony. However, delving deeper, it also hints at the destructive potential of such a relationship. The contrasting imagery of a house on fire suggests both passion and chaos, highlighting the fine line between love and destruction.Another prominent lyric is, "I don't feel anything no more, this state of grace is consuming me." This line evokes a theme of emotional desolation and a loss of personal connection. It explores the state of being consumed by an emotion, where one's feelings become overwhelming, yet at the same time, the lack of feeling is profound. This paradoxical theme explores the isolation that can manifest within oneself and the longing for emotional reconnection.Moving further into the song, the lyrics, "The streets are so empty at this time of night, I'd rather walk on my own than fight," delve into the theme of solitude and self-reliance. It highlights the importance of self-preservation, the choice to withdraw from conflict, and find solace in one's own company. The stark contrast between the deserted streets and the desire to avoid confrontation reflects a desire for peace and introspection, a time to reflect and heal away from external pressures.The allusion to intellectual songs of love and stolen pens to velvet gloves in the final verse introduces a theme of disillusionment and the contrast between idealized notions of love and harsh reality. It delves into the concept of the deceptive nature of romanticism and the dangers of believing in superficial façades. This theme invites contemplation about the role perception plays in relationships and how ideals can often be misleading.Overall, "As It Is When It Was" paints a vivid picture of the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and personal growth through its thoughtful and evocative lyrics. The song gracefully weaves together themes of longing, introspection, disillusionment, and personal transformation. It serves as a reminder to never take relationships or personal growth for granted and to explore the depths of our own emotions, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.