The song "What Did You Do?" by Gabrielle Aplin explores themes of vulnerability, loneliness, and the impact someone can have on another person's life. The lyrics depict a person who is hiding behind walls, trying to protect themselves from getting hurt. They have closed themselves off from the world, locking the door to keep others out. The narrator expresses that they did not actively seek out this person who has now entered their life, causing them to feel overwhelmed and torn apart. The individual who entered their life brought about a significant change, creating feelings of loneliness even when they are alone. The narrator didn't realize or care about their loneliness until this person came along and stirred up their emotions. The narrator acknowledges that they are in a state of confusion and chaos. They see this person's presence as a negative influence and imply that sticking around will reveal the worst side of them. However, despite not asking for this person's involvement, the narrator admits to slowly accepting their presence. Throughout the song, the narrator reflects on their loss of control and how thoughts of this person consume their mind wherever they go. The repeated question "What did you do to me?" suggests that this person has had a profound impact on them, and they find themselves longing for the way things were before this individual entered their life. The song ultimately explores the paradoxical feelings of resistance and attraction towards someone who unexpectedly enters our lives, causing turmoil and questioning our sense of self. It delves into the complexities of human emotions, vulnerability, and the transformative power of love or loss.
