Song Title: drinks or coffee
Artist: ROSÉ
Release Date: December 6, 2024
Album: rosie (vampirehollie edition)
Genre: Pop
Songwriters: ROSÉ, Amy Allen, Omer Fedi, Carter Lang, Blake Slatkin & Sir Dylan
“drinks or coffee” by ROSÉ is a captivating exploration of the subtle, often unspoken dynamics that unfold between two people at a social gathering. The song beautifully captures the moment when a casual friendship begins to blur into something more, all within the backdrop of a lively yet somewhat dull party. The theme revolves around the delicate dance of attraction and the uncertainties that come with it, framed through the simple yet profound choice between continuing the night with drinks or opting for a more intimate, sober conversation over coffee.
The opening lines, “Standin’ in the corner of a crowded place / This is borin’, till I heard your name,” set the scene with a sense of initial disinterest that transforms into intrigue upon hearing a familiar name. This shift from boredom to excitement highlights the power of connection, even in the most mundane settings. The phrase “we’re just friends, it’s okay” adds a layer of complexity, suggesting a underlying tension beneath the surface of their friendship.
The pre-chorus, “Is it just me startin’ to see / You in a different light? / I know we can’t say what we mean,” delves into the internal struggle of acknowledging new feelings while being unable to express them openly. The contrast between what is felt and what can be said creates a poignant tension, making the listener acutely aware of the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist.
The chorus, “I’m feelin’ so good at a bad party / We don’t have to talk, I know that you want me / Gotta keep it nice, we cannot be naughty / We could get drinks, or we could get coffee,” is a playful yet meaningful exploration of the choices that define the evening. The repetition of “feelin’ so good at a bad party” underscores the idea that even in less-than-ideal circumstances, the right person can make all the difference. The line “we don’t have to talk, I know that you want me” conveys a silent understanding, a shared awareness that transcends words. The juxtaposition of “keep it nice” with “cannot be naughty” adds a flirtatious edge, hinting at the underlying desires that are carefully kept in check.
In the second verse, the lines “Is it so wrong I’ve been thinkin’ ’bout you all day / Yesterday, and today, and tomorrow?” reveal the protagonist’s persistent thoughts about the other person, suggesting a deepening emotional involvement. The repetition of “yesterday, and today, and tomorrow” emphasizes the continuous nature of these thoughts, indicating a growing obsession.
The phrase “bendin’ the truth” in the second verse adds a layer of complexity, suggesting that the protagonist may be hiding their true feelings or intentions, even from themselves. This internal conflict is a relatable aspect of the song, as many people struggle with being honest about their emotions, especially in the early stages of a potential relationship.
The outro, with its repetition of “drinks, coffee,” serves as a reminder of the central dilemma of the song. The simple, almost mantra-like repetition reinforces the idea that the choice between drinks and coffee is not just about the beverage, but about the direction the evening will take. The addition of “just call me, yeah” invites a direct connection, a call to action that encourages the other person to make a move.
The most impactful lines of the song are found in the chorus: “We don’t have to talk, I know that you want me / Gotta keep it nice, we cannot be naughty.” These lines encapsulate the essence of the song, conveying the unspoken understanding and the delicate balance between desire and restraint. The playful yet meaningful exploration of this dynamic makes the song relatable and engaging.
Comparing “drinks or coffee” to real-life scenarios, it’s easy to see the parallels with the subtle, often unspoken attractions that can develop between friends. The song’s themes of internal struggle, unspoken desires, and the choices that define a relationship resonate with anyone who has ever found themselves in a similar situation. In the context of ROSÉ’s personal life, the song could be seen as a reflection of her own experiences with navigating the complexities of friendship and attraction.
Overall, “drinks or coffee” is a beautifully crafted song that explores the nuances of attraction and the choices that define a relationship. It’s a testament to ROSÉ’s ability to capture the subtle emotions and dynamics that make human connections so compelling.