The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Flashes" by the artist "Tove Lo"

In "Flashes," Tove Lo sings about the elusive nature of love and the insecurities that haunt her journey through fame. Despite outward success and being surrounded by people, she feels alone and seeks solace in the person she addresses throughout the song.

The recurring phrase "What about you?" is both a cry for help and an accusation. She seeks validation that she is not alone in her feelings, that this person experiences the same emotions. She acknowledges her flaws ("When I mess up," "When I fuck it up"), but craves understanding and support, especially during moments of public failure ("in front of the flashes").

"It's a money thing" are likely the words of the person she addresses. Perhaps he believes that success has changed her, made her unreachable. However, Tove Lo refutes this, claiming that money doesn't matter and that all she desires is to preserve their previous connection.

The recurring motif of pushing people away demonstrates her fear of intimacy, her fear of being vulnerable. She acknowledges that people try to reach her, but she can't let them in, fearing further pain.

Ultimately, the song leaves a sense of incompleteness, mirroring the state of the relationship itself. The question "What about you?" lingers in the air, unanswered.