Used To Love
Topic & A7S Lyrics

The lyrics to "Used To Love" by Topic & A7S paint a vivid picture of disillusionment and nostalgia, reflecting a deep-seated longing for a time or place that once held warmth and comfort. The first stanza introduces a sense of constant change and turmoil, using the metaphor of a "sphere" to signify the relentless nature of life and the world. There is an implication that the state of the world could very well be absurd, as suggested by the line about the flatness of a pancake. The mention of "tasteless jokes" speaks to the lack of levity in current times, resonating with the sentiment that even brilliant comedic legends like George Carlin would struggle to thrive in this chaotic environment. Furthermore, the imagery of "sheep counting" morphing into a gruesome vision of injury underscores a jarring transition from something innocuous to a scene filled with despair, signifying a societal landscape beset by strife and distress.

As the lyrics move into the chorus, there’s a palpable sense of loss and yearning for a “land I used to love.” This phrase effectively encapsulates the feeling of nostalgia interlaced with regret; the singer wishes they could remember the essence of what made this “land” meaningful. The repetition of the desire to remember emphasizes an emotional and almost primal connection to a place that might symbolize a lost innocence or safety. Yet, the bracing question of “why do I care” introduces a troubling contradiction, suggesting that despite the pain or confusion surrounding the memories of this land, the singer still feels tethered to its existence. The imagery of being “reduced to embers” cleverly conveys the idea of decay and destruction, hinting at the idea that this cherished place has been ravaged, leaving only remnants of what it once was.

The second verse introduces an element of aggression and urgency through comparisons to "Janjaweed" — a group known for their violent actions during conflicts, enriching the narrative by tying it to themes of exploitation and societal decay. The “flashing a wry smile” evokes a sense of deceptive charm that masks underlying predatory motives, showcasing how individuals or systems can exploit vulnerability, particularly referencing marital fidelity with “exploit the cuckold man.” This further furthers the sense of betrayal and hopelessness; the singer is surrounded by those who are deceitful and menacing in their actions. The transition to “360 turn leads to mass confusion” signifies that even attempts to gain clarity are met with disarray, reinforcing the need to rely on unreliable sources for humor, such as “the Onion.” This lends a sardonic touch to the commentary on the state of society, where finding comfort becomes nearly impossible.

The intense imagery in the latter part of the song introduces “social corrupt termites” as a metaphor for the destructiveness of societal issues. The notion of running away—”I keep on running”—suggests a futile attempt to escape the overwhelming onslaught of corruption and decay. The continuous arrival of these “termites” metaphorically indicates that the forces causing fragmentation and reliance on superficial distractions are unabated. The repetition of “keep on coming” emphasizes a cycle of attack and retreat, exposing the relentless nature of social decay. In its conclusion, the song circles back to the haunting sentiment of being reduced to "embers," underscoring a profound loss of hope and connection to the world that once was. The poignant juxtaposition of longing and despair interweaves throughout the song, crafting a chilling reflection on love, memory, and society’s troubled landscape.