Meaning of The Closer I Get To You* (cover) by SZA

The SZA cover of "The Closer I Get to You" introduces a unique twist to the timeless love ballad originally performed by Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway. With SZA's soulful and emotive voice, the song takes on an entirely new meaning, delving into the complexities of an unrequited love. While the lyrics may seem straightforward at first, a closer analysis reveals a tapestry of themes that weave together to tell a multifaceted narrative.One standout lyric that captures the essence of the song is, "Could never be more than friends." This line speaks to the inherent vulnerability and heartache embedded in unreciprocated love. It explores the longing one feels when they desire a deeper connection with someone they can only be friends with. The theme here revolves around the bittersweet nature of unrequited love, emphasizing the pain that comes from desiring something that can never be fully attained.Another significant lyric is, "And all the while inside, I knew it was real." This lyric delves into the internal struggle one experiences when their emotions are not reciprocated. It speaks to the power of intuition and self-awareness in matters of the heart. The theme that arises here is the battle between reason and emotion. Despite knowing the reality of the situation, the heart often clings to hope, creating a poignant tension between what one knows and what one feels.An equally captivating lyric is, "Baby boy, I knew it was real. Telling you I knew it was real, yeah." This line explores the vulnerability of openly expressing one's true feelings, knowing that they may not be reciprocated. It delves into the courage it takes to confront the truth head-on, leaving oneself emotionally exposed. The theme that emerges here is the bravery in vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of expressing one's feelings truthfully, even if it may lead to heartache.Finally, "The way you make me feel" is a succinct yet powerful line that addresses the intoxication of love, even when it is unrequited. It captures the intoxicating bliss one feels when in the presence of the beloved, regardless of the reciprocation of those feelings. The theme that arises from this lyric is the transformative power of love, how it can touch and influence one's emotions, regardless of the outcome.These standout lyrics contribute to the overarching theme of the song - the complexities of unrequited love and the emotional roller coaster it engulfs the protagonist in. Through the exploration of themes such as bittersweet longing, the battle between reason and emotion, vulnerability, and the transformative power of love, SZA's cover of "The Closer I Get to You" provides a fresh perspective on the timeless ballad.In conclusion, SZA's rendition of "The Closer I Get to You" takes the listener on a soulful journey through the complexities of unrequited love, engaging with unexpected and imaginative themes. The lyrics invite reflection on the bittersweet nature of longing for a deeper connection, the perpetual battle between reason and emotion, the bravery in vulnerability, and the transformative power of love. Through her heartfelt delivery, SZA breathes new life into the song, leaving listeners with a profound appreciation for the depth of human emotions.