Meaning of Somebody Else by The 1975

The 1975's song "Somebody Else" explores the complex emotions of heartbreak and longing in a unique and captivating way. It delves into the pain of seeing someone you once loved move on with someone else, while also questioning one's own desires and the possibility of finding someone new. The song's overall theme revolves around the idea of letting go and the difficulty of facing the reality that the person you once shared a deep connection with has found somebody else.One standout lyric that reinforces this theme is "I don't want your body, but I hate to think about you with somebody else." This line captures the conflicting emotions the narrator is experiencing. On one hand, they no longer desire physical intimacy with their former partner, but on the other hand, the thought of them being intimate with someone else causes them distress. This highlights the struggle of letting go of an emotional bond while still feeling possessive and protective over the person who has moved on.Another notable line is "I'm looking through you while you're looking through your phone, and then leaving with somebody else." This lyric depicts the feeling of being replaced and left behind. In the age of technology, it's common for couples to engage in the behavior of mindlessly scrolling through their phones while physically being in the presence of their partner. This lyric suggests that the narrator is watching their ex-partner engage in this behavior, only to eventually leave with someone new. It symbolizes the sense of disconnect and detachment that occurs when a person's attention and affection shift to someone else, leaving the narrator feeling empty and betrayed.The lyric "Come on baby, you said you'd find someone to take my place" explores the themes of promises and expectations. In a relationship, it's natural to rely on the security of promises made by your partner. However, when those promises are broken, it can intensify the pain and make it harder to accept that the person you cared for has moved on. This highlights the expectation of finding someone to fill the void left by the narrator, further fueling their feelings of heartbreak and loneliness.The line "Get someone you love? Get someone you need? F_ck that, get money" introduces an unexpected theme of self-empowerment and independence within the narrative of heartbreak. It suggests that instead of seeking emotional connection through romantic relationships, one can find fulfillment and happiness by focusing on their own success and financial independence. This unconventional theme challenges the listener to reevaluate their priorities and emphasizes the importance of self-love and self-sufficiency.Lastly, the repeated phrase "I can't give you my soul, cause we're never alone" touches on the idea of emotional baggage and the inability to fully commit to a new relationship because of the lingering feelings for the ex-partner. It addresses the fear and hesitation one may have in opening up to someone new after experiencing heartbreak. This theme emphasizes the difficulty of moving on and fully investing in a new love when one's heart still holds on to the past.In conclusion, "Somebody Else" by The 1975 beautifully encapsulates the intricate emotions and struggles that come with heartbreak and the process of letting go. Through its standout lyrics, it explores themes of possessiveness, detachment, promises, self-empowerment, and emotional baggage. While the overarching theme of the song centers around the pain of seeing someone you once loved move on, these additional themes provide a unique and imaginative perspective on the complexities of the human heart.