“Better By Now” by Brandon Davis is a poignant exploration of the human experience when it comes to relationships, heartbreak, and moving on. The story the song narrates is one of a man caught in a cycle of emotional pain and regret, providing an emotional analysis on the struggles that come with trying to overcome a failed relationship.
One of the principal themes evident is regret and a sense of self-reproach. The protagonist seems to reproach himself for falling back into his past lover’s allure, even though he knows the potential for heartbreak is imminent. This theme of personal struggle and the difficulty of moving on is commonly found in many songs, but Davis amplifies it through a clear depiction of the protagonist’s recurring mistake.
The song also uncovers a spectrum of emotions, primarily heartbreak and longing. Despite the pain the protagonist has experienced, he finds himself drawn back into his past relationship, with his actions driven by an irresistible pull of familiarity and longing. This theme is a universal one; many people have experienced a similar pull back toward relationships that are no longer beneficial.
The song also touches upon themes of catharsis and personal growth. Though the protagonist repeatedly ends up alone and heartbroken, the narrative suggests that he is gradually learning from his experiences. The song title itself implies a recognition that he should have known “better by now”, indicating a process of self-reflection and learning even amidst ongoing struggle.
Lastly, there is a notable element of irony evident in the song. The protagonist’s presumptions about the evening turn out to be farthest from the truth – his past love’s appearance takes him by surprise, unsettling him and outrightly dismissing his well-intended plans of having a good time. This underlines the unpredictability of life and the consequences of unresolved emotional attachments.
Overall, “Better By Now” is a heartfelt tale of a man persistently caught in an emotional tug-of-war, wrestling with his feelings of longing, regret, and hope.