The song "New and Improved" by ELIO explores the aftermath of a failed relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and reflection on what went wrong between the two individuals. The protagonist ponders the idea of being too different to reach a mutual decision and wonders if things could have been different. Despite the breakup, the protagonist holds onto the love letters from their former partner, symbolizing the lingering emotions and attachment to the relationship. They acknowledge that their ex's presence in their life had a positive impact, inspiring personal growth and improvement. The lyrics also depict a sense of loneliness and longing for the past. The protagonist remembers the moments of joy and laughter shared with their ex, expressing a wish that the relationship had not ended. The song also explores themes of self-doubt and self-reflection. The line "I stick a knife to the mirror, 'cause my reflection's so sore" suggests a struggle with self-image and a constantly changing mindset. The protagonist mentions changing their mind like the weather and feeling numb even if they cried for someone. These lines reflect inner conflicts and a difficulty in finding emotional attachment in future relationships. The song touches on the pressure from others, specifically mentioning how the protagonist feels judged by their ex's friends, which has made them feel inadequate. It explores the idea of accepting the reality of the situation and moving on, emphasizing the importance of getting over past relationships for personal growth. Towards the end of the song, the protagonist contemplates whether they should finally let go and accept the end of the relationship. They acknowledge the difficulty in forcing something that doesn't fit while highlighting the freedom and empowerment that comes with moving on. Overall, "New and Improved" tells a story of heartbreak, self-reflection, and the struggle to let go of a failed relationship. It explores themes of personal growth, acceptance, and the complexities of navigating love and loss.
