Meaning of Backwards by Shawn Mendes

The Shawn Mendes song titled 'Backwards' explores the theme of longing for love and the fear of regression in a relationship. The song reflects on the aftermath of a past relationship and the struggle to move forward while still holding onto the memories and comparisons of a previous love.One standout lyric in the song is in the chorus where Mendes sings, "I don't wanna go backwards, but I don't wanna go back to you." This lyric speaks to the conflict within the artist, as he simultaneously desires to avoid reliving past hurt and yet can't fully let go of the person he's singing about. The theme of emotional growth and the fear of reverting to an old pattern is evident here.Another significant lyric that adds depth to the overall theme is found in the second verse: "I wish you made it hard, uh-huh, I wish you broke my heart, yeah." In this line, Mendes expresses a longing for an intensified emotional experience. It suggests that the artist believes the pain of heartbreak would have made it easier for him to move on. This lyric highlights the yearning for an ending that would have been more definitive, ultimately aiding in the process of moving forward.The repetition of the phrase "I compare everyone to you" in both the first and second verses also reinforces a central theme of the song. It portrays the difficulty of finding someone new who can measure up to the standard set by a past love. This theme revolves around the fear of settling or never being able to replicate the same level of connection experienced before.Furthermore, the line "And if I could turn back time, will I be suffering all my life?" in the bridge of the song introduces an imaginative exploration of the consequences of going backwards in time. This lyric delves into the concept of self-reflection and questioning whether revisiting the past would simply perpetuate a cycle of suffering. It speaks to the importance of growth and learning from past mistakes rather than dwelling on them.Overall, 'Backwards' by Shawn Mendes encompasses the themes of longing, fear of regression, and the struggle to move forward in the aftermath of a past relationship. Through clever and contemplative lyrics, Mendes captures the complexities of navigating love and the emotional turmoil that can come with letting go. The song encourages listeners to reflect on the importance of personal growth, while acknowledging the difficulties of finding someone who can live up to the standards set by a previous love.