As It Was

Come on, Harry, we just want to bid you goodnight Holding me captive Gravity's grip, it holds me back I yearn for your open hand Why not let's just leave it there? Nothing left to say When all obstructs our path It seems you're irreplaceable And I'm the one who will remain, oh-oh-oh In this vast world, it's only us You know it's not the same as before In this vast world, it's only us You know it's not the same as before As it was, as it was You know it's not the same Pick up the phone "Harry, you're no good when you're alone Why are you home, sitting on the floor? What kind of pills are you taking?" The bell keeps ringing But no one comes to lend a hand Your father lives all on his own He just wants to know you're doing well, oh-oh-oh In this vast world, it's only us You know it's not the same as before In this vast world, it's only us You know it's not the same as before As it was, as it was You know it's not the same Go home, get ahead, with internet at light-speed I don't want to speak of how things were Leaving America, two children follow her I don't want to discuss who's doing it first (Hey) As it was You know it's not the same as before As it was, as it was

Composer: Thomas Edward Percy Hull, Harry Edward Styles, Tyler Sam Johnson

In-depth Analysis of 'As It Was' by LyricLens AI

'As It Was' by Harry Styles is a deeply introspective track that explores themes of nostalgia, isolation, and the bittersweet nature of change. The song captures a yearning for a past state of being, acknowledging that things are fundamentally different now. The opening lines, with a child's voice, immediately set a personal and vulnerable tone.

Central Themes Explored:

Change and Nostalgia: The repeated refrain "You know it's not the same as it was" powerfully encapsulates a longing for what has passed, whether it be a relationship, a phase of life, or a sense of self.
Isolation and Vulnerability: Lines like "Harry, you're no good alone / Why are you sitting at home on the floor?" and "Nobody's coming to help" reveal a poignant sense of loneliness despite global fame, hinting at the pressures of public life.
Personal Struggle vs. Public Perception: The song subtly contrasts the artist's internal struggles with external expectations or perceptions, touching on themes of mental well-being and the challenges of maintaining genuine connections.

The upbeat synth-pop production creates a compelling contrast with the melancholic lyrics, a signature Styles move that highlights the complexity of human emotions. It's a candid reflection on growth, loss, and the ever-present shadow of the past.

Q&A & Fun Facts: 'As It Was'

What is 'As It Was' by Harry Styles about?

'As It Was' explores themes of change, nostalgia, and loneliness. It reflects on a past state of being (a relationship, a period of life) and acknowledges that things are fundamentally different now, highlighting a sense of isolation despite external pressures.

What does the phrase 'Gravity's holdin' me back' mean?

This line can be interpreted as a metaphor for external forces or personal struggles that prevent the narrator from moving forward, staying stuck in the past, or reaching for new possibilities. It signifies a resistance to change or a burden that weighs him down.

Who says "Come on, Harry, we wanna say goodnight to you" at the beginning?

The voice at the beginning of the song belongs to Harry Styles' goddaughter, Ruby Winston, who reportedly called him every night. This personal touch adds to the song's intimate and vulnerable feel.

Fun Facts:

'As It Was' broke several streaming records upon its release, becoming the most-streamed song in a single day on Spotify in 2022.
The track served as the lead single from Harry Styles' critically acclaimed third studio album, 'Harry's House', released in May 2022.
The song's music video, directed by Tanu Muino, features vibrant choreography and imagery that often juxtaposes moments of joy with subtle hints of solitude.