Song meaning of Deja Vu by Carstens (Ft. Jeanne Durham)

"Deja Vu" by Olivia Rodrigo is a poignant song that delves into the feelings of nostalgia, jealousy, and heartbreak that arise when seeing an ex-partner move on with someone new who seems to be replicating the same experiences shared with the singer. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of shared memories and intimate moments, such as car rides to Malibu, enjoying strawberry ice cream together, and trading jackets. These seemingly mundane yet special moments are now being reenacted with someone new, causing the singer to feel a sense of déjà vu.

The chorus of the song highlights the frustration and hurt of realizing that what was once unique and special between the singer and their ex is now being recycled with someone else. Lines like "She thinks it's special, but it's all reused" and "That was our place, I found it first" convey a sense of possessiveness and longing for what was lost. The singer questions if their ex experiences the same sense of déjà vu when engaging in similar activities with the new partner.

The second verse delves deeper into the similarities between the new partner and the singer, suggesting that the ex may be trying to recreate the past relationship with someone who resembles the singer. References to shared music tastes, like singing Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl" together, and inside jokes imply a deep connection that is now being replicated with someone new.

The bridge and outro of the song reinforce the theme of repetition and familiarity, with the singer acknowledging that the ex likely experiences déjà vu in their new relationship as well. The use of strawberry ice cream in Malibu and trading jackets as recurring motifs symbolize the cyclical nature of relationships and the bittersweet realization that what was once special has now become recycled with someone else. Overall, "Deja Vu" captures the complex emotions of longing, regret, and acceptance that come with witnessing a past love being reenacted with a new partner.