The song opens with the lines “Ik heb zand in mijn zakken / En wind in mijn haar” (I have sand in my pockets / And wind in my hair), which sets a scene of struggle and resilience. The imagery of sand suggests a heaviness, while the wind symbolizes freedom or change. This juxtaposition introduces the listener to the narrator’s internal conflict: the desire to be free yet feeling weighed down by responsibilities.

As the song progresses, the narrator describes their efforts to support their partner, stating, “Jij zei dat het klaar was, noemde mij je atlas” (You said it was over, called me your atlas). The term ‘atlas’ serves as a powerful metaphor for the role of the narrator in the relationship, suggesting that they are expected to bear the weight of their partner’s emotional struggles. This line encapsulates the essence of the song, where the narrator feels both honored and burdened by this role.

The repeated phrase “nooit andersom” (never the other way around) emphasizes the imbalance in the relationship. The narrator feels that their sacrifices and emotional labor are not reciprocated, leading to feelings of frustration and exhaustion. The line “Sorry dat ik jou nog op handen draag” (Sorry that I still carry you) reflects a sense of resignation, as the narrator acknowledges their continued support despite the emotional toll it takes on them.

The imagery of building “huizen van karton” (houses of cardboard) symbolizes the fragility of the narrator’s emotional state and the unsustainable nature of their sacrifices. It suggests that the efforts to maintain the relationship are built on a weak foundation, highlighting the precariousness of their situation. The narrator recognizes the cost of their emotional investment, stating, “De prijs die ik betaal om te denken dat het kon” (The price I pay to think it could work).

In the latter part of the song, the narrator reflects on the past, expressing a desire to burn away the memories of their tumultuous weeks together. The lines “Wou ik dat ik onze weken / Ritueel in brand kon steken” (I wish I could burn our weeks / As a ritual) convey a longing for closure and a release from the emotional burden. The narrator grapples with the complexity of their feelings, acknowledging that they would go to great lengths for their partner, even if it means sacrificing their own well-being.

Overall, “Atlas” captures the intricate dynamics of love and responsibility, illustrating the emotional struggles faced by those who find themselves in one-sided relationships. The introspective and melancholic tone of the song resonates with listeners, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences with emotional burdens and the importance of mutual support in relationships.

Released in 2022, “Atlas” reflects contemporary themes of emotional labor and the complexities of modern relationships. In an era where mental health awareness is increasingly prioritized, the song resonates with listeners who may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities in personal relationships. The metaphor of the ‘atlas’ serves as a reminder of the weight individuals often carry for their loved ones, highlighting the need for balance and mutual support in emotional connections.