"As It Was" is a Harry Styles cover song performed by Arcade Fire that appears to explore themes of loneliness, isolation, and the changes in the world. The song begins with the narrator expressing a desire to be free from the hold of gravity and wants the subject of the song to hold out the palm of their hand. The lyrics suggest that the speaker is trying to connect with someone and leave behind the distractions and complications that surround them.

The chorus repeats the line "it's not the same as it was," suggesting that something has changed in the world around them, and they long for the way things used to be. They feel as though they are alone in this changing world.

In the second verse, the singer talks about Edwin, who seems to be struggling with anxiety and depression. Edwin is alone, and even though his father wants to help him, he struggles to reach out for support.

The bridge of the song takes a slightly more upbeat turn, referencing light-speed internet and the potential for travel, but the emphasis on "not wanting to talk about the way things were" suggests that the past may have been challenging for the speaker.

Overall, "As It Was" appears to be an introspective and reflective piece that explores feelings of loneliness and isolation while trying to navigate a world that is constantly changing.