The meaning of Closer by Nine Inch Nails

"Closer" is an engaging hit by "The Chainsmokers ft. Halsey" that tapped into the universal human experience of nostalgia and unfulfilled love when it was released in 2016, becoming an anthem for millennials. But what's the deeper meaning behind this catchy chart-topper?

The verses in "Closer" are a duet, sung separately by Andrew Taggart of The Chainsmokers and Halsey. The song describes two former lovers who, by chance, run into each other after many years. These ex-lovers then decide to revisit their past, reconnecting despite knowing they are better off apart.

The opening lyrics, sung by Taggart, reveal a man who is still haunted by the memory of his past lover. By recollecting details such as the tattoo on her shoulder and the sheets that still smell like her, the song vividly depicts how potent nostalgia can be.

The chorus of "Closer" then sees both singers join together, indicating that the feelings of longing and desire are mutual. They both reminisce about their time in the "city", and the jeep they "stole" from Taggart's roommate, these details serve to evoke a shared past that is both exciting and carefree.

However, it's worth noting that the chorus begins with an acknowledgement of their age. They both know they aren't getting any younger, they refer to themselves as being "four years no calls" and now they are looking "pretty in a hotel bar". Through these poignant notes, the song captures the essence of the bittersweetness of growing old, and how time changes us and our circumstances.

Yet, the narrative takes an interesting turn in Halsey's verse. She admits that she can't move on because she never got "closure". The title of the song thus takes on a deeper meaning here, pointing towards a yearning for resolution that is universal in relationships that end abruptly.

Furthermore, by the end of the song, it becomes clear that this reunion is merely temporary. Despite being "closer", both characters seem resigned to the fact that they are not right for each other. The fact that they "move to the city in a broke-down car" and "can't afford" to do certain things point towards deeper issues that led to the dissolution of their relationship in the first place.

In conclusion, while "Closer" has an upbeat rhythm and catchy tune, its lyrics tell a more poignant story. It's a story of lost love, bittersweet nostalgia, the pursuit of closure, and the realization of the impossibility of turning back time. The narrative weaved by The Chainsmokers and Halsey taps into a universally relatable experience, which is, perhaps, why it resonates with so many listeners globally.