Meaning of What Now by Rihanna

The overall theme of Rihanna's song "What Now" explores the complexities of emotions and the struggle to understand oneself in a challenging situation. It delves into the feelings of confusion, frustration, and loneliness that arise when faced with difficult choices or unfulfilled desires. The song captures the internal battle between wanting to move forward and feeling trapped in a state of emotional turmoil.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "It's laughing at me through the glass of a two-sided mirror." This lyric suggests a sense of self-awareness and introspection, as if the protagonist is observing their own emotions from a distance. This theme can be expanded upon to explore the concept of self-perception and the struggle to reconcile the different sides of one's personality. It raises questions about how we see ourselves and the masks we wear in different situations, highlighting the inner conflict between the presented persona and the true self.Another important lyric in the song is "But was it me that changed, and he just happened to come at the right time." This line implies a sense of uncertainty and self-doubt in the protagonist's romantic relationship. It explores the theme of personal growth and the impact it can have on our relationships. This theme can be expanded upon to explore the idea that personal development and change are often necessary in relationships, but they can also create tension and uncertainty. It raises questions about the balance between individual growth and the expectations within a relationship.The line "There's no one to call cause I'm just playing games with them all" highlights a sense of detachment and emotional emptiness. This theme can be further explored to discuss the fear of vulnerability and the ways in which people create emotional barriers to protect themselves. It delves into the idea that sometimes we push people away and play games as a defense mechanism, ultimately leading to feelings of isolation and regret. It raises questions about the fear of emotional intimacy and the consequences of self-imposed isolation.The refrain "What now?" acts as a recurring thread throughout the song. It reflects a sense of uncertainty and a longing for guidance or direction. This theme can be expanded upon to explore the idea of searching for purpose and meaning in difficult times. It raises questions about how we navigate through uncertainty and make decisions when faced with conflicting emotions. It also serves as a reminder of the universal struggle to find answers in moments of confusion and despair.In conclusion, Rihanna's song "What Now" delves into the intricacies of human emotions and the struggles we face in understanding ourselves and our relationships. The standout lyrics in the song contribute to the development of unexpected and imaginative themes, such as the exploration of self-perception, personal growth in relationships, fear of vulnerability, and searching for purpose. Through its introspective and introspective lyrics, the song invites listeners to reflect on their own emotional journeys and the complexity of navigating through challenging times.