Upside

The overall theme of the song revolves around the emotional struggle of dealing with a breakup. The singer reflects on the past, feeling a mix of nostalgia and sorrow. There’s a strong sense of yearning for what once was, but also an awareness that things have changed. The lyrics paint a picture of vulnerability and the challenge of moving on when the memories are so vivid.

Verse 1

I'll assume all the worst I can imagine, while I wait for you
And I stay a fool in the wake of this confession, something you already knew

In this verse, the singer sets a heavy tone. They’re waiting for someone, but their mind runs wild with negative thoughts. It’s like they’re preparing for the worst, which hints at past disappointments. The mention of being a "fool" suggests they feel foolish for holding onto hope, especially when the other person seems aware of their feelings. This verse captures that anxious feeling of uncertainty in relationships.

Chorus

I can't try another source to reach you
And I hate the way you look at me now
Consequential, I don't wanna believe it
God, I've gotta find a way to get out

The chorus hits hard with the realization of distance. The singer feels stuck, unable to connect with the person they miss. The line about hating the way they’re looked at shows a shift in their feelings, there’s pain in that gaze now. It feels consequential, meaning it has a big impact, and the singer struggles to accept the reality of their situation. The plea to find a way out expresses desperation and the desire to escape this emotional turmoil.

Verse 2

There remains a hue of me in your mind, but baby, why am I navy blue?
No excuse when you know just where to find me and I know you miss me too

In this verse, the singer reflects on their lingering presence in the other person’s thoughts. The color imagery is powerful; navy blue often suggests sadness. They’re aware that they’re still on the other person's mind, yet they question why it feels so heavy. The acknowledgment that both miss each other adds complexity to their situation, suggesting that while there’s still a bond, it’s overshadowed by pain and confusion.

Chorus

But I can't try another source to reach you
And I hate the way you look at me now
Consequential, I don't wanna believe it
God, I've gotta find a way to get out

This chorus repeats, reinforcing the feelings of helplessness. The singer’s frustration is palpable, and it’s clear they’re still grappling with the same issues. The repetition emphasizes their struggle and how deeply the emotional impact runs. They’re caught in a loop, unable to break free from the hurt.

Bridge

Mistaken the good old days
Coming to find that every mess that I made
Is going back from where it came
I'm having visions of you that I won't ever escape
I need an upside, honey, but I think it's too late

The bridge shifts the focus to reflecting on the past. The singer feels regret over mistakes made in the relationship. There’s a sense of longing for the “good old days,” but it’s mixed with the realization that those moments are now tainted. The line about visions they can't escape shows how deeply embedded these memories are. The plea for an "upside" indicates a desire for hope, but the admission that it might be "too late" adds a layer of sadness, suggesting they feel trapped in their regrets.

Chorus

I can't try another source to reach you
And I hate the way you look at me now
Consequential, I don't wanna believe it
God, I've gotta find a way to get out

The final chorus brings back the same feelings of frustration and sadness. The repetition drives home the idea that the singer is still struggling with their emotions. They want to escape this pain, yet they feel stuck in the same cycle of longing and heartache.

Closing Thoughts

"Upside" by Porch Light is a heartfelt exploration of love lost and the struggle to move on. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of regret, longing, and emotional turmoil. The singer’s vulnerability connects with anyone who’s faced the difficulty of letting go. It’s a reminder that healing isn’t always straightforward and sometimes, we’re just left with memories that linger.