“Start Again” by Justin Bieber and Cody Simpson portrays a relationship in crisis and the quest to rebuild and refresh it. The song explores the emotional intricacies of love, demonstrating a delicate balance between despair and hope, regret and renewal.
One of the recurring themes is the idea of vision and blindness. Using visual metaphors, the song establishes a contrast between awareness and ignorance in relationships. While love is often associated with blindness, symbolizing an obliviousness to the faults of the beloved, the lyrics suggest that the speaker has gained a clear vision, possibly in the aftermath of a conflict or misunderstanding. This newfound clarity transitions the song’s narrative from an abstract concept of love to an introspective and personalized glimpse into the challenge of sustaining a relationship.
The song also delves into the theme of starting anew, reflecting a longing to erase past mistakes and begin again with a clean slate. This demonstrates a significant emotional resilience, despite the hurdles faced. The use of this theme speaks to feelings of regret, as well as a determination to salvage what matters. It paints a picture of a relationship that’s worth fighting for, yet has been compromised by factors that led to the protagonists’ estrangement.
At its core, “Start Again” underscores the complexity, struggles, and perseverance that define human relationships. By using succinct yet profound lyricism, Bieber and Simpson effectively convey raw and relatable emotions through their music, making the song highly resonant with listeners negotiating similar circumstances in their personal lives. Ultimately, the song is not only about the difficulties of love but also about the possibilities of renewal and reconciliation, urging listeners to never lose hope in the face of hardships.