The song 'From The Start' by Laufey is a poignant narrative about unrequited love framed within the perspective of an individual secretly in love with a friend. Laufey expresses the torturous emotions of adoring someone who remains oblivious to their feelings and instead talks about other love interests. The artist's internal struggle and longing are laid bare, culminating in the heartfelt admission of their love 'from the start'.
The emotional journey of 'From The Start' begins with the tension of unspoken affection. Laufey portrays the protagonist's internal conflict through the imagery of uncomfortable silences, highlighting the agony of being close to the object of their affection yet worlds apart in emotional reciprocity.
As the song progresses, Laufey delves deeper into the bittersweet pain of hearing the beloved rave about another person, igniting a mixture of jealousy and heartache. The emotional turmoil is a vivid inferno of longing and the stark realization that the feelings of love aren't mutual.
In an almost cathartic moment of vulnerability, Laufey brings forth a chorus rich with the hope of romance. There's an invocation to Cupid, the god of desire, love, attraction, and affection, symbolizing the yearning for love's arrow to strike the heart of the beloved as well.
The refrain suggests a dream of shared feelings, even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. The scat iteration is a nod to jazz influences and serves as a joyous interlude in an otherwise emotionally weighted pursuit, encapsulating the dichotomy of love's happiness and angst.
"Don't you notice how I get quiet when there's no one else around?"
This line highlights the song's central theme of unspoken love; the quietness symbolizes the words left unsaid out of fear of rejection.
"Oh, Cupid walks right through"
Cupid is the Roman god of love, often depicted as shooting arrows to cause individuals to fall in love. Here, Cupid's arrow signifies the irresistible and sudden pull of love that the singer feels.
"Listening to you harp on 'bout some new soulmate"
The term 'harp on' means to talk continuously and tediously about something. It reflects the singer's annoyance and sadness over the beloved's obliviousness to her feelings.
"Oh, how I wish you'll wake up one day Run to me, confess your love"
This line portrays the hope and daydream that their love will be recognized and returned, demonstrating the idealistic side of unrequited affection.