Stranger is a captivating and self-contemplative ballad by Olivia Rodrigo, released on September 9th, 2023. The song delves into the complex emotions and insights that come with moving on from a past relationship. With heartfelt lyrics and a melodic composition, Rodrigo takes listeners on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. In the opening verse, Rodrigo awakens with a renewed sense of hope. She describes the weight lifting off her chest, signaling a turning point in her healing process. The chorus emphasizes her newfound completeness, as she reflects on the impact the relationship had on her. The contrasting emotions of longing and liberation are masterfully portrayed through her soulful delivery.
Throughout the song, Rodrigo acknowledges the efforts she made to salvage the relationship, realizing that she went to great lengths for a person who ultimately became a stranger to her. She expresses disbelief at her own actions and ponders how she could have invested so much in someone who no longer holds a significant place in her life.
Despite the pain of separation, Rodrigo demonstrates an incredible level of maturity and empathy. She sincerely wishes her ex-partner happiness, acknowledging the positive influence they had on her personal growth. This aspect of the song highlights the introspection and self-awareness present in Rodrigo's songwriting.
Stranger leaves listeners contemplating the boundaries and complexities of love. It explores the contrast between individual growth and the remnants of past relationships. With her heartfelt vocals and vulnerable lyrics, Rodrigo captivates her audience, reassuring them that it is possible to find solace after heartbreak. Overall, Stranger showcases Olivia Rodrigo's exceptional talent as a young artist, with its understandable lyrics, melodious composition, and stirring depth. It serves as a poignant reminder that one can move on from a past love and emerge stronger and more self-assured on the other side.
I had the strangest feeling of this weight off in my chest
Hadn't felt that hopeful since the day that you left and it felt nice
So nice
And everybody told me it would happen in time
Fire would burn out and all the storm clouds would subside
And I always believed it was some comforting lie, they believe
So nice
'Cause I was half myself without you, now I feel so complete
And I can't even remember what made me lose all my sleep
I cried a million rivers for you but that's over now
You're just a stranger I know everything about, ooh, ooh
You're just a stranger I know everything about
Made a pot of coffee and I poured myself a cup
I thought of all the things I did to try and win your love
How did that happen? I can't imagine ever doin' all that stuff for just one guy
Like, you're just some guy
Oh, but I hope that you're happy, baby, you know I really do
And God knows that I am the girl I am because of you
You know I'll always think of you, I'll love you 'til the end of time
You are the best thing that I'll ever keep so far out of my life
Yeah, I was half myself without you, now I feel so complete
I can't even remember what made me lose all my sleep
I cried a million rivers for you but that's over now
You're just a stranger I know everything about, ooh, ooh
You're just a stranger I know everything about
There's nothing left for me to know
I had to stay, you had to go
And it was me but it doesn't matter anymore, no
There's nothing left for me to sing
And I screamed, I cried, I did the whole thing
And I loved you mad but it doesn't matter anymore, no
I was half myself without you but now I feel so complete
And if I'm not enough for you, you're not enough for me
I fight a million battles but you can't get to me now
You're just a stranger I know everything about, ooh, ooh
You're just a stranger I know everything about
You're just a stranger I know everything about