"As It Was" is a complex and multi-layered song, and Harry Styles himself has stated that it's open to interpretation, so there's no single definitive answer to what it's about. However, some common themes and interpretations emerge from the lyrics and the context of its creation:

Themes:

• Loss and Change: The song explores the feeling of change, loss of innocence, and the difficulty of adapting to a new reality. The repetition of "It's not the same as it was" emphasizes this sense of change and the yearning for a past that can't be reclaimed.
• Loneliness and Isolation: The lyrics paint a picture of a person struggling with loneliness and the weight of their own thoughts and feelings. Lines like "Harry, you're no good alone" and "Your daddy lives by himself" highlight the isolation and the lack of genuine connection.
• Self-Reflection and Growth: The song also suggests a process of self-reflection and trying to understand one's place in the world. "Holdin' me back" and "Gravity's holdin' me back" could represent both external forces and internal struggles that hinder personal growth.

Background:

• Personal Experiences: Harry Styles has spoken about drawing on his own experiences for the song, particularly the changes and challenges he faced after his rise to fame. He's also mentioned the influence of his father's absence in his life, which is echoed in the lyrics.
• Musical Influences: The song's sound and structure are influenced by classic rock and pop, drawing on artists like David Bowie and The Beatles. The use of repetition and simple, direct lyrics is reminiscent of these influences.
• Release and Context: "As It Was" was released in 2022, during a time when Styles was experiencing immense popularity and was exploring new artistic directions. It was a significant turning point in his career, which likely influenced the song's themes of change and growth.

Interpretations:

While the song's meaning is open to interpretation, here are some possible readings:

• A Song About Fame and Its Toll: It could be seen as a reflection on the challenges of celebrity, the constant pressure, and the loss of privacy.
• A Heartbreak Ballad: The song's tone and lyrics could also be interpreted as a mournful reflection on a lost love or a relationship that has changed beyond repair.
• A Journey of Self-Discovery: The song could also be a metaphor for the process of growing up, facing difficult truths, and learning to navigate life's challenges.

Ultimately, the power of "As It Was" lies in its ability to resonate with listeners on a personal level. The universal themes of change, loss, and self-discovery resonate deeply with audiences who can connect their own experiences to the song's poignant lyrics.