"Born Again" by LISA, featuring contributions from RAYE and Doja Cat, is a confident, emotionally charged anthem of self-liberation and empowerment. At its core, the song explores themes of rebirth, independence, and self-worth, interwoven with sharp wordplay and biblical imagery. Through its layered lyrics, it presents a narrative of leaving behind a past relationship, reclaiming power, and challenging the ex-partner’s perception of loss.
Rebirth Through Absence: A Theme of Transformation
The title itself, "Born Again," carries strong spiritual and transformative connotations. While the phrase traditionally refers to religious renewal, in this context, it symbolizes personal growth and reinvention after heartbreak. The protagonist positions herself as a near-messianic figure — someone capable of guiding her former lover to salvation, yet ultimately choosing to walk away.
- The Chorus frames this transformation:
- "If you tried just a little more times, I would've made you a believer."
- "Would’ve showed you what it’s like… to be born again."
Here, belief isn’t just about faith — it’s about recognizing her worth. The lover had an opportunity for redemption but failed to seize it. The spiritual undertones enhance the idea that the relationship was a test, one that the ex-partner failed to pass.
Lyrical Devices: Biblical Allusions & Wordplay
Religious references are scattered throughout the song, reinforcing the theme of rebirth but with an ironic, almost playful twist:
- "I could've made you pray to Jesus" – This line is dripping with both irony and power. It suggests that the love and devotion she could have inspired in her ex were akin to religious worship — an ultimate form of surrender.
- "You’ve bitten from the fruit but can’t give back" (Doja Cat’s verse) – A clear reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, where the act of eating the forbidden fruit led to the loss of paradise. This line suggests that the ex took something valuable but was unable to reciprocate or appreciate its worth.
Throughout, the language teeters between the spiritual and the material, blending divine imagery with real-world consequences of a failed relationship.
Empowerment Through Detachment
The song’s perspective is unapologetic and self-assured. Unlike a typical heartbreak song dwelling on sadness, "Born Again" radiates confidence, portraying the breakup as a stepping stone rather than a setback.
- Opening verse ("And I just broke up with my man, like mm") establishes this casual, almost indifferent attitude.
- "Got all the receipts, I'm a businesswoman" – This is a clever metaphor. The term “receipts” can refer both to literal proof of purchases and to metaphorical proof of wrongdoing in a relationship. Calling herself a "businesswoman" reinforces the idea that she’s in control, methodical, and calculated in her decisions.
Doja Cat’s verse adds another dimension of strength:
- "I can't be your sugar mom, get a job for me, sh*t" – Here, the power dynamic shifts, implying that the ex was dependent on her in some way, whether emotionally or financially.
Even in the bridge, RAYE maintains this tone:
- "Seasoned like the cinnamon the way I'm gettin’ rid of him" – The comparison to cinnamon suggests a mix of warmth and sharpness — just as cinnamon has both sweet and spicy notes, so does the way she cuts ties with her past.
Musicality and Structure: A Hypnotic, Repetitive Flow
The repetition in the chorus — "To be born again, baby, to be born again" — mirrors a mantra, reinforcing the song’s theme of transformation. The hypnotic, rhythmic quality makes it feel almost ceremonial, as if the singer is conducting a ritual of detachment.
- The call-and-response structure in the verses (LISA & RAYE exchanging lines) adds a conversational feel, as if reinforcing the idea of shared wisdom between women.
- Doja Cat’s verse breaks the structure slightly with a more direct, rap-inflected delivery, injecting a fresh perspective into the song.
Final Thoughts: A Statement of Power and Letting Go
"Born Again" is not a lament; it’s a declaration. It takes familiar themes of heartbreak and reinvention but elevates them with sharp lyricism, religious undertones, and a playful, yet commanding tone. LISA, RAYE, and Doja Cat weave a narrative where the protagonist has moved beyond pain, embracing her newfound strength with wit and grace.
Rather than pleading for a lover to change, the song flips the script — suggesting that if they had tried harder, they might have been worthy. But now, it’s too late. And that’s entirely their loss.
