"well..." by Hayley Kiyoko is a song about empowerment and moving on from a toxic relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of confidence and self-assuredness after a period of heartbreak and healing. The song begins with the narrator expressing surprise at seeing their ex-partner at a social gathering. Despite their past, the narrator acknowledges that their ex still looks great, but it has been a while since they allowed themselves to be emotionally vulnerable. The chorus reveals that the narrator has moved on and is in a better place. They throw their hands in the air, enjoying the music and feeling like themselves again. They never thought they would forgive their ex-partner for what they did, but seeing them now, the narrator realizes they have truly moved on. The second verse highlights the narrator's progress without their ex-partner. They are doing well, better than their ex-partner, and they have found someone who truly loves them, something their ex could never do. The narrator expresses their satisfaction by flaunting their newfound happiness and thanking their ex for putting them through the difficult experience that led them to where they are now. The bridge of the song showcases the narrator's confidence and how they are thriving without their ex-partner. They mention a casual interaction where their ex asks about their mother, but the narrator sees through the insincerity. They bite their tongue and continue dancing, indicating that they are unbothered by their ex's presence. Overall, "well..." is a song that celebrates personal growth, self-love, and finding happiness after experiencing a toxic relationship. It is an anthem of empowerment, where the narrator confidently asserts that they are doing better and are in a much happier place without their ex.
