"Start" by Ellie Goulding tells the story of a person who has struggled with their identity and the impact of a past relationship. The lyrics depict a sense of longing for a different life and a desire to escape the burdens and pressures that have weighed them down. The speaker reflects on their past, feeling old even when they were younger, and constantly feeling pulled under by societal expectations. They question everything they have done and feel the need for a fresh start. The lyrics allude to a lost love and the pain of their absence. Despite their desire for change, the speaker expresses their unwillingness to compromise or alter themselves for just anyone. The line "I could call a truce for anyone but you, I could change the truth for anyone but you" suggests that this person has had a profound impact on their life and they are willing to be vulnerable with them. The song highlights the difficulty of letting go and starting over. It acknowledges the continuous cycle of having to recover and begin anew. The speaker ponders the possibility of reinventing themselves and breaking free from the constraints of their past. The collaboration with Serpentwithfeet adds a new perspective to the song. In his featured verse, he talks about defying stereotypes and expectations placed upon him as a Cancer sign, symbolizing transformation and rebirth. He expresses his determination to cut ties with someone he no longer wants in his life, proving others wrong in the process. Overall, "Start" is about the constant struggle to find oneself, the longing for change, and the courage to let go of the past in order to embark on a new beginning. It speaks to the universal experience of personal growth, self-discovery, and the power of individual agency.
