The Best

The song captures the bittersweet nature of looking back at a relationship that had both good and bad moments. Conan reflects on the highs, like sweet memories, and the lows, like feelings of abandonment. He’s torn between wanting to move on and still feeling hurt. The desire for closure is clear, making the listener feel the weight of unresolved emotions.

Verse 1

It was a bad time, wouldn't go back
But memories of good times, they really last
Arms in your sweatshirt, primrose at night
Mint chocolate ice cream, your hazel eyes

In this verse, Conan sets the stage by acknowledging the complexities of his past relationship. He admits it was a tough time but still cherishes the happy memories. The imagery of small, personal moments, like wearing a sweatshirt together or enjoying ice cream, paints a vivid picture of intimacy. It shows how even in bad times, those sweet moments linger on.

Chorus

I know it's so low
To hate you for leaving without me
But why leave so quickly?
Do you miss me?

Here, the chorus captures the struggle of feeling abandoned. Conan feels it's unfair to harbor resentment, but the pain is real. His questions show a longing for connection and understanding. It’s a raw vulnerability that many can relate to, as he wonders if the relationship meant anything to the other person.

Verse 2

Maybe it's all in my mind
But I swear if I saw you tonight
We could make peace with it, not have to sleep with it
Haunting me all of the time

In this verse, Conan reflects on the possibility of meeting again. He’s hopeful that a conversation could ease his pain. The idea of “making peace” suggests he’s ready to let go but is still haunted by memories. It’s a powerful image of how unresolved feelings can linger in the mind.

Chorus

I'd take back the shit that I said
When I was so pissed that you left
I could make peace with it, finally sleep with it
Finally wish you the best

The repetition of wanting to make peace emphasizes his desire to move on. He regrets past words spoken in anger and wishes he could take them back. The chorus conveys a sense of longing for resolution, showing his growth and willingness to let go of the past.

Verse 3

Grew out your buzz cut, now my hair is short
Nothing like it once was, when I was yours
I still remember that night you left, closed the door
And you stood by the window waiting

In this verse, Conan reflects on change and how both he and his ex have moved on. The mention of hair changes symbolizes growth and transformation. The memory of the night they parted is vivid, highlighting the emotional weight of that moment. It shows how certain memories can stick with us, even as time passes.

Chorus

Maybe it's all in my mind
But I swear if I saw you tonight
We could make peace with it, not have to sleep with it
Haunting me all of the time

This chorus repeats the earlier themes, reinforcing his desire for closure. The haunting feeling suggests that while he’s trying to let go, the past still lingers. It’s a relatable struggle many face when dealing with breakups.

Bridge

Sometimes I wonder, were we ever even friends?
Sometimes I wonder if it really is the end
I wanna watch you while the words come out your mouth
That you don't miss me like I know you miss me now

In the bridge, Conan questions the foundation of their relationship. He wonders if they were ever truly friends, which adds a layer of doubt and confusion. His desire to hear his ex admit they miss him reflects his inner turmoil and the need for validation. It adds depth to his feelings, showing that he’s not just sad about the breakup but also questioning the bond they had.

Chorus

Maybe it's all in my mind
But I swear if I saw you tonight
We could make peace with it, not have to sleep with it
Haunting me all of the time

The final chorus echoes previous sentiments, driving home the need for resolution. It’s like he’s caught in a loop of emotions, wanting to move forward but still feeling tethered to the past. The repetition emphasizes the struggle that many face when trying to let go.

Closing Thoughts

Overall, "The Best" is a heartfelt exploration of a breakup. Conan Gray captures the push and pull between love and loss, showing how memories can haunt us even as we try to move on. The song resonates with anyone who’s faced the end of a meaningful relationship, making it both relatable and deeply emotional.