Song meaning of 20/20 by Alanis Morissette

"20/20" by Alanis Morissette is a reflective and introspective song that delves into the theme of hindsight and regret. The lyrics express a sense of longing to go back in time and make different choices, knowing what the consequences would be in the present. The song opens with the realization that the speaker would have approached situations differently if they had the wisdom they have now. Lines such as "I would never have been in such a rush" and "I would never have held on so tightly" highlight a sense of impatience and control that the speaker wishes they could have avoided.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the pain of looking back with "twenty-twenty" vision, meaning perfect hindsight. The speaker acknowledges the torment of knowing how things could have been different if they had possessed the knowledge they have now. The repetition of the line "This wouldn’t have happened if I knew then what I know now" drives home the theme of regret and the desire to change the past.

In the bridge, the lyrics delve deeper into the idea of missed opportunities and the importance of having faith and patience in the process of life. The speaker laments not fully appreciating the time they had and not trusting the journey they were on. The song ends with a poignant repetition of the line "If I knew then what I know now," encapsulating the central message of the song.

Overall, "20/20" by Alanis Morissette is a powerful exploration of the complexities of regret and the longing for a second chance to make different choices. The lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of hindsight and the realization that some things can never be undone.