Behind the Meaning of Kelsea Ballerini’s “Two Things”

Kelsea Ballerini hasn’t been afraid to be honest about her relationship struggles. The last of era of her career saw her get candid about her divorce and, though she’s moved on, she takes a moment to reference that heartbreak in her impending album on “Two Things.”

Heartbreak isn’t linear. Sometimes it’s hard and sometimes it feel markedly easy. The aftermath of a relationship is rife with leftover love and kindling hatred. Both of those feelings can exist at the same time. That’s the idea Ballerini boasts in this track. Uncover the meaning behind “Two Things,” below.

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Behind the Meaning of Kelsea Ballerini’s “Two Things”

I love New York City, but I can’t stay at the Carlyle anymore
My head and bed were messy from the night before
Sunflowers at the door

Ballerini is a very visual songwriter. She often tells stories from the first person perspective, bringing the listener into her world for a while. In “Two Things,” she sings about getting flowers from an ex and reckoning with the emotions it drums up.

We said that it was over, what’d you send ’em for, she asks. But, in her heart, the gesture means something. She saves just a few to remember that time in her life. It’s a dichotomy that many of us have experienced before.

Two things can be true
I’ll love and hate you
I’ll be your best and your worst day
I’ll be your blessin’ and curse, babe, yeah
Sometimes I’ll cut and ghost

The chorus sees her deliver a truth that can be hard to grasp at times: Two things can be true. Mixed emotions are very real and, moreover, are often the case. Where does the love go when you breakup? Does it automatically dissipate the minute you say goodbye? No, is the answer for Ballerini.

But sometimes I’ll get too close
You’re nothin’ and everythin’ I got to lose
Two things can be true
Two things can be true

This is a powerful track from a candid and consequential songwriter. It’ll speak to the hearts of many listeners who have been through a similar situation. Check out this Ballerini track, below.

The next hundred-twenty hours I was obsessively lookin’ at my phone
And checkin’ your location, did you make it home?
Are you feelin’ alone?
Are we turnin’ into people that we used to know?
If I’m bein’ honest
Couldn’t get to Carolina quick enough, I’m not givin’ up

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)