We Are Not Only What We’ve Been Before

Song Meaning

The lyrics open with a moment of private introspection, a plea for clarity and openness in a relationship. The narrator retreats to a room to "pray for us," seeking a shared understanding of their needs. This quiet act of seeking is immediately contrasted by a return to shared space, where a simple observation of a partner's expression offers a profound sense of reassurance. The core tension lies in the unspoken, the subtle cues that confirm the validity of their shared life. The narrator interprets the "shape that your mouth makes" not as words, but as a silent affirmation that "there's nothing wrong / With how we live our lives." This reliance on non-verbal communication highlights a deep, perhaps earned, comfort and acceptance within the relationship, a feeling that external validation isn't necessary. The repeated phrase "We are not only what we've been before" acts as a powerful mantra, a declaration of growth and evolution beyond past selves or circumstances. This refrain, particularly when it shifts to "You are not only what you've been before," underscores a belief in individual and collective transformation. It suggests that present actions and feelings supersede past identities, allowing for a continuous becoming. This lyrical structure effectively builds a sense of quiet confidence and mutual understanding. The initial prayer for openness is answered not by grand pronouncements, but by the simple, profound recognition of contentment in the present moment. The repeated affirmations, both about their shared lives and their capacity for change, create an atmosphere of gentle, unwavering support, making the simple observation of a partner's mouth a powerful anchor.