Song meaning of As It Was (Apple Music Home Session) by Tate McRae

"As It Was (Apple Music Home Session)" by Tate McRae, as performed by Harry Styles, delves into themes of longing, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The song opens with the narrator feeling held back by external forces, as expressed in the lines "Gravity's holdin' me back" and "Seems you cannot be replaced." This sense of being stuck in a certain place or mindset is further emphasized in the chorus when the lyrics state, "In this world, it's just us / You know it's not the same as it was." Here, the singer reflects on how things have changed and acknowledges that the past can never be fully recaptured.

The second verse introduces a conversation where the narrator is questioned about their well-being, with references to loneliness and potential struggles with mental health. The line "What kind of pills are you on?" hints at a deeper emotional turmoil that the protagonist may be facing. The chorus repeats the sentiment that the world has evolved and that the past cannot be replicated, reinforcing the idea of acceptance and moving forward.

The bridge of the song introduces a shift in perspective, with mentions of modern technologies like "light-speed internet" and the decision to leave behind certain aspects of the past. The lyrics "I don't wanna talk about the way that it was / Leave America, two kids follow her" suggest a desire to focus on the present and future rather than dwelling on past experiences or relationships.

The outro brings the song full circle, reiterating the refrain "As it was, as it was / You know it's not the same as it was." This repetition drives home the message of change and growth, emphasizing the importance of embracing the present moment rather than clinging to the past. Overall, "As It Was" by Tate McRae (performed by Harry Styles) is a poignant reflection on the complexities of life, relationships, and the inevitability of change.