Slowly

The overall theme of "Slowly" is about the challenges of intimacy and self-acceptance. Olivia captures that awkward dance of wanting to be close to someone but feeling scared to let your guard down. She talks about moments that feel special, yet she wrestles with her own insecurities. It’s a relatable struggle many face when trying to navigate love and self-image.

Verse 1

Down in Margate had a sip of you
And it went straight to my head
I could've opened up, cried and almost been myself
But I took the piss instead

In this verse, Olivia sets the scene with a vivid memory, hinting at a moment filled with potential connection. The phrase “had a sip of you” feels playful yet intimate. She mentions wanting to be vulnerable, to “open up,” but instead, she deflects with humor. This shows her fear of being truly seen, highlighting the tension between wanting to be real and hiding behind a facade.

Chorus

I find it hard, hard to be soft
Stop saying I'm perfect
When clearly I'm not
Just need to catch
Catch my breath
Go slowly, slowly

The chorus captures the heart of her struggle. Olivia acknowledges that being vulnerable isn’t easy for her. She pushes back against the idea of perfection, admitting her flaws. The repetition of “slowly” emphasizes her need to take her time in this relationship. It’s like she’s pleading for patience, both from herself and her partner, to navigate these feelings at her own pace.

Verse 2

I know you're not supposed to know me
I only see it when you show me slowly
I love to teach you how to hold me
So go on, hold me

In this verse, Olivia reflects on the complexity of wanting to be known while also feeling like she should keep some distance. She expresses a desire for her partner to understand her gradually. The idea of teaching someone how to hold her suggests a need for guidance and a gentle approach. It’s a beautiful way of saying she wants closeness but needs it to come in a way that feels safe.

Chorus

Go slowly, slowly
I know you're not supposed to know me
I only see it when you show me slowly
I love to teach you how to hold me
So go on, hold me

The chorus returns to reinforce her need for caution and care. It’s almost like a mantra, repeating her request for things to unfold gently. The rhythm here feels soothing, echoing her wish to take things step by step. This repetition emphasizes the importance of trust and timing in relationships.

Bridge

Remember when you called us both a cab
And forgot you had your bike
And the whole way home, I thought
"How's he keeping up with me?
He must be really into me"

In the bridge, Olivia reminisces about a specific moment, adding a layer of nostalgia. It’s a sweet and light-hearted memory that showcases her feelings of affection. The thought of her partner keeping up with her sparks hope and excitement. It’s a turning point where she feels wanted, even if she still battles her fears.

Outro

Maybe I will be fine this time
And I'll let you see me in the light
Yeah, maybe I will be fine

The outro is reflective and hopeful. Olivia hints at a shift in her mindset. She considers the possibility of being okay with showing her true self. This feels like a small victory, suggesting growth and a willingness to be vulnerable. It's a gentle promise to herself that maybe, just maybe, she can embrace who she is in this relationship.

Closing Thoughts

"Slowly" is a beautifully layered song about the complexities of love and self-acceptance. Olivia Dean captures that mix of excitement and fear that comes with opening up to someone. Her voice carries both vulnerability and strength, making it easy to connect with her journey. It’s a reminder that taking your time in a relationship is totally okay, and sometimes, that’s the best way to grow together.