Released: 2021
“Happier Than Ever” by Billie Eilish is layered with a bitter-sweet essence of longing and disappointment, painted with frank realizations about a toxic relationship. This pop song beautifully encapsulates the heavy emotions of realizing one’s self-worth and courageously stepping away from a messy love saga.
Beginning with the poignant lyrics, “When I’m away from you, I’m happier than ever“, Eilish hints at a relationship that’s more draining than fulfilling. She confesses she wishes this wasn’t true, but the relief she feels in separation is undeniable. She ponders upon the unease, wondering if her estranged lover even paid attention to her world or only pretended to.
The lyrics, “You clearly weren’t aware that you made me miserable”, highlight the typical cluelessness of an emotionally negligent partner. The chorus echoes the initial realization that she’s ‘happier than ever‘ away from her partner, which is both a sorry truth and a liberating revelation.
The second part of the song takes a powerful turn as Billie sings, “You call me again, drunk in your Benz”. It’s a firm denouncement of irresponsible behavior and disregard for her feelings. The lines, “And all that you did was make me fucking sad”, and “You ruined everything good”, rips off the veil of any lingering fondness and uncovers the raw and painful truth.
The final lines of the song, “Just fucking leave me alone”, represent Billie reclaiming her life and sanity from the tumultuous relationship. The song is a journey from initial discomfort to final self-assertion and serves as a powerful anthem for anyone trying to get out of a relationship where they feel lost and suffocated.
