Then Was Then And Now Is Now

Song Meaning

“Then was then and now is now” isn't just a statement; it's a firm decree. The lyrics immediately establish a clear boundary between a difficult past and a determined present. There's an urgent, almost insistent push to leave yesterday behind, focusing entirely on the present moment. The central tension lies in the conscious choice to move on despite past hurts. The line “Sweet was sweet / But not so bitter now” subtly reveals a past that wasn't entirely bad, yet still carried a sting that has now faded. This isn't just about forgetting; it's a deliberate act of processing and releasing old grievances, signaled by the mutual “You forgive / And I will too.” The conflict is internal and relational, resolved by a shared commitment to a fresh start. The insistent repetition of the core phrase acts as a rhythmic, almost hypnotic mantra. It's not just a statement of fact but a powerful affirmation, a mental reset button. This simple, declarative structure reinforces the idea that the past is immutable and separate, while the present offers a clean slate, culminating in the vivid promise of coming out “All shiny, bright and new.” The lyrics' effectiveness comes from their directness and unwavering optimism. The bridge, with its rallying cry “Now, now we can win / No matter what might have been,” transforms passive acceptance into active agency.