What Now?
V.A. Lyrics

The lyrics of "What Now?" by V.A. convey a deep sense of fragility and the inevitability of loss within a romantic relationship. The opening lines, "Hold me gently / But firmly / Don't leave me," set the tone for the emotional precariousness that the singer is experiencing. There is a palpable tension between the desire for closeness and the fear of separation, illustrating a paradox that many individuals face in relationships. The singer craves that sense of security—wanting to be held in a way that reassures them of their partner's presence, yet knows that this may be coming to an end. This yearning highlights a characteristic dilemma of love: the simultaneous desire for connection and the awareness of impending loss.

As the lyrics progress, the theme of impermanence becomes even more pronounced. The singer acknowledges their physical reaction to the emotional turbulence, stating, "My body is trembling a bit." This trembling serves as a metaphor for the internal chaos that often accompanies emotional distress; it represents vulnerability and an acknowledgment of fear that the relationship, which was once stable, is deteriorating. The impending conclusion of love is described vividly with phrases like “Our love is drawing close to an end” and “Hold your breath / Till it's over.” These lines evoke a sense of urgency, as if both partners are caught in a limbo where they must confront the inevitability of separation, making the moment of transition tense and charged with unresolved feelings.

Another layer to the lyrics is the singer's contemplation of potential future relationships. They express a resignation in saying that even if they fall in love with someone else, they believe “you’ll forgive me.” This implies a complex mix of guilt and acceptance; the singer grapples with feelings of loyalty towards a partner they will inevitably leave. Furthermore, the repetition of the notion that the partner is allowing them to drift away emphasizes a mutual understanding of the unsustainable nature of their relationship. This speaks to the shared sorrow between lovers who realize that what once brought them joy is now a source of pain—signifying a poignant moment where love and loss intricately intersect.

Ultimately, the refrain of the song encapsulates the overarching theme: “Our love is drawing close to an end, / The end of it all.” This not only signifies the demise of the particular relationship at hand but also echoes a broader contemplation of love's transient nature. The cyclical structure of longing and letting go might resonate deeply with listeners who have experienced the evolution of love—from its passionate beginnings to its sorrowful conclusions. The playful “La la la la” interjects an almost bittersweet irony, as if to highlight the incongruity between the stay in the moment and the inevitable journey into heartbreak. The song reflects a universal struggle, inviting listeners to engage with their emotions while also recognizing the beauty embedded in the pain of farewell.