This Is New

Song Meaning

The lyrics capture a sudden, transformative shift in perspective, marked by the repeated phrase "This is new." Initially, the spoken dialogue sets a scene of potential unease or forgotten connection, with Randy recalling a past encounter that Liza doesn't immediately place. This creates a subtle tension before Liza's sung declaration. Once the singing begins, the narrator, Liza, asserts a profound change. She contrasts her previous state of "merely existing" with a newfound sense of "living at last." This isn't just a minor improvement; it's a complete upheaval, described as being "spellbound" and unsure if she's "heaven- or hell-bound," indicating the overwhelming and disorienting nature of this awakening. The core of the transformation lies in leaving behind a "shadowy past." Each "heartbeat insisting" signifies an internal, undeniable push towards this new reality. The imagery of being "hurled / Up to another world" emphasizes the dramatic, almost involuntary nature of this shift, suggesting an experience so potent it transcends ordinary existence and leads to a state of pure bliss. This lyrical arc is effective because it grounds an abstract feeling of profound change in concrete, albeit heightened, language. The repetition of "This is new" acts as an anchor, reinforcing the central theme while the contrasting images of past existence versus present bliss highlight the magnitude of the narrator's emotional and spiritual reawakening.