What Ifs — Angourie Rice Lyrics

"What Ifs" by Angourie Rice, in the voice of Cady Heron, capturs the essence of self-realization and the yearning for personal growth beyond familiar confines. The song begins with a reflection on contentment in familiar surroundings: "I used to think I would spend every second I have, Right where my story began." This sentiment expresses a comfort in the known and the predictable, a common human inclination.

However, as the song progreses, there is a clear shift in Cady's perspective. The lines "But now I'm wishing for whatever comes after goodbye, On every star in the sky" signify a longing for something more, a desire to explore and experience beyond the current horizon. This shift represents a common juncture in life where the known and comfortable is no longer fulfilling, leading to a quest for new experiences and self-discovery.

A key theme of the song is the fear of unfulfilled potential and living with regret, as expressed in "I don't wanna live with 'What ifs', 'Might haves', 'Could have been if I had, only tried not held back'." These lines encapsulate the desire to live fully, without the burden of wondering what could have been achieved if only one had dared to try. It’s a reflection on the human tendency to shy away from risks due to fear of failure or the unknown.

Cady's resolution to embrace her potential and reject a life of regret is further emphasized in "This time there's no looking back, I'm crossing things off my list." The idea of actively pursuing goals and experiences, rather than letting life pass by, is a central message.

Overall, "What Ifs" by Angourie Rice as Cady Heron is an anthem of breaking free from the constraints of comfort and familiarity. It's about embracing change, pursuing dreams, and refusing to let fear of the unknown dictate the course of one's life. The song resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pull between the safety of the known and the allure of what could be.