"Shallow" from A Star Is Born beautifully captures the complex emotions of two individuals yearning for something more, struggling with their own internal battles, and finding solace in their connection. Here's a breakdown of the lyrics and their potential meaning:

Verse 1 (Bradley Cooper):

• "Tell me somethin', girl..." This opening line establishes a tone of vulnerability and honesty. It sets the stage for a deep conversation between two souls searching for something more.
• "...Are you happy in this modern world?" This question speaks to the disillusionment and dissatisfaction many feel in a fast-paced, superficial world. It explores the idea that happiness can be elusive in a modern context.
• "...Or do you need more? Is there somethin' else you're searchin' for?" This delves into the protagonist's yearning for something deeper and more meaningful, perhaps a connection or a sense of purpose.

Refrain (Bradley Cooper):

• "I'm fallin'..." This line suggests a sense of vulnerability and loss of control, potentially a descent into a deeper emotional state.
• "...In all the good times, I find myself longin' for change..." This highlights the paradox of wanting change even in good times, hinting at a restless spirit seeking something beyond superficial happiness.
• "...And, in the bad times, I fear myself..." This reveals a deep-seated fear of one's own inner struggles and the darker aspects of oneself.

Verse 2 (Lady Gaga):

• "Tell me something, boy..." This mirrors the vulnerability and honesty of the previous verse, emphasizing the shared struggle.
• "...Aren't you tired tryna fill that void?" This directly addresses the emptiness and longing for connection.
• "...Or do you need more? Ain't it hard keepin' it so hardcore?" This questions the sustainability of a "hardcore" approach to life, suggesting it might be more fulfilling to embrace vulnerability and true connection.

Refrain (Lady Gaga):

• "I'm falling..." This reinforces the shared experience of vulnerability and emotional descent.
• "...In all the good times, I find myself longing for change..." The longing for change echoes Bradley's sentiment, showing their shared desire for something different.
• "...And, in the bad times, I fear myself..." This again highlights the fear of one's own inner struggles, suggesting a common ground of vulnerability.

Chorus (Lady Gaga):

• "I'm off the deep end, watch as I dive in..." This signifies a bold leap of faith and a willingness to embrace the unknown, regardless of the potential consequences.
• "...I'll never meet the ground..." This conveys a sense of abandon and surrendering to the moment, a willingness to dive deep into their emotions.
• "...Crash through the surface where they can't hurt us..." This speaks to finding a space where judgment and external pressures are irrelevant.
• "...We're far from the shallow now..." This emphasizes a movement towards a deeper connection and a rejection of superficiality.

Post-Chorus (Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper):

• "In the sha-ha, sha-hallow..." This repetition of the word "shallow" reinforces the escape from superficiality and the descent into something deeper.
• "...In the sha-ha, sha-la-la-la-low..." The melodic "la-la-la-la" adds a dreamy, hopeful quality to the lyrics, suggesting a sense of newfound peace and freedom.
• "...In the sha-ha, sha-hallow..." This reinforces the idea that they are no longer content with the shallowness of their lives.

Bridge (Lady Gaga):

• "Oh, ha, ah, ha..." This vocalization adds an emotional depth and a sense of liberation, possibly signifying a release of tension and embracing their vulnerability.

Chorus (Lady Gaga):

• "I'm off the deep end, watch as I dive in..." The chorus repeats, emphasizing their commitment to this dive into something deeper.

Post-Chorus (Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper):

• "In the sha-ha, shallow..." This final repetition reinforces the idea that they are no longer content with the shallowness of their lives and have found something more profound.

Overall:

The lyrics of "Shallow" explore the yearning for true connection and the vulnerability that comes with it. It's a song about overcoming fear and embracing the unknown, finding solace in a shared journey towards something deeper and more meaningful. The music and lyrics beautifully capture the raw emotions of two individuals who are lost in the world but find themselves in each other.