subtract by ed sheeran is his final mathematically-named album

Rebecca Ebony Goulbourne

Tragedy shapes Ed Sheeran’s piercing yet often melancholy new album Subtract.

Sheeran, concluding his series of mathematically-titled albums, emphasised that he wished to ‘open the trapdoor to his soul’ with his latest release. Quickly, Subtract has become a source of refuge and a lyrical oasis for many listeners.

Not only this, but discourse circulating the record has opened an important conversation around the stigmatisation of young people’s mental health and the troubles which arise during adolescence. The lyrical expression of the album has resonated with millions since its official release in May.

FANS’ REACTIONS

Hundreds of fans bombard many of the comment sections of Sheeran’s newest music videos and social media posts with personal anecdotes of their struggles with mental illness and personal losses.

”Fans praise Sheeran for his brutal and transparent honesty, allowing them to see past the smoke screen of fame and wealth tied to the industry.”

Many fans share messages such as: “It just goes to show that we are all so much more alike than different”, “You are right to say that there is no time limit on loss. Thank you for that message” or “Going through the hardest time of my life and this album is healing me”.

Overall, fans praise Sheeran for his brutal and transparent honesty, allowing them to see past the smokescreen of fame and wealth tied to the music industry.

At a time when an estimated 41% of UK young people express experiences of low moods and depression, there is no question as to why Subtract has gained immense popularity over its expressive and heartfelt verses. The album fast became Sheeran’s sixth number one album, and the UK’s fastest selling album in 2023.

The British musician has broken many previous records set by other musical giants in the industry, topping the UK charts numerous times with each release.

However, Subtract stands out as his most raw and authentic release to date: from ‘Eyes Closed’ to ‘Dusty’, Sheeran’s talent sways through many distinct genres, spanning classic pop to a reworked interpretation of acoustic R&B.

THE MAN AND THE MUSIC

Last year saw Sheeran’s wife, Cherry, diagnosed with a life-threatening tumour during her pregnancy as well as the death of Jamal Edwards, a close friend. 2022 stood as a difficult year for Sheeran, resulting in the pop star opening up about the traumatic and not-so-glamourous aspects of life, while discussing his experiences within a narrative which penetrates the emotions of his fans.

”This song I wrote about feeling like I was drowning under waves and not able to get out”

‘Boat’ is a particularly courageous introduction to the album, considering the song does not follow typical Sheeran-esque beats or rhythmic fast-paced rap. The track focuses on his ability to bounce back after misfortunes and waves of depression, effectively encouraging his fans to do the same. Sheeran explains in recent interviews that this was where he “wrote about feeling like I was drowning under waves and not able to get out” – a testament to resilience which many of us are familiar with.

“the ending of youth is when we begin to let the pain in?“

‘End of Youth’ is the track that has touched the emotions of millions. With its powerful chorus and strong vocals, Sheeran is seen pondering the question of whether “the ending of youth is when we begin to let the pain in?” It is a heartbreaking perspective on the turbulence of adolescence and young adulthood, and it poetically puts something which many young people can agree on.

Moreover, as waves of mental struggle and illness crash into the minds of young people around the world, the song allows fans to feel less alone with their struggles – allowing them an insight into the dark places in the mind of an international star loved by millions.

Further into the album, ‘Eyes Closed’ offers a painful depiction of never seeing a loved one again, whether a lover or a best friend, it stands as Sheeran’s most listened-to track on the album. And rightly so. Here, the track begins with a pizzicato riff which introduces listeners to an extremely emotionally challenging track, one which communicates its message without symbolism and emotional inference within a more literal and powerful musical framework.

BUT THAT’S NOT ALL

Bonus tracks are also not to be overlooked on Subtract. ‘Wildflower’, the album’s first bonus track, is heavily influenced Dessner’s production style, the producer on the album. Much like ‘Sycamore’, the track offers a slow-paced beat, accompanied by a commentary on growing up and living life happily and freely.

”A desperate cry for a lost friendship and new beginnings”

Towards the end of the record, bonus tracks like ‘Stoned’ provide a crucial take on living isolated in your 20s; watching life whip past before your eyes and feeling as though you can’t take control of your own destiny. Meanwhile, friends are leaving and growing older joyfully with successful lives and healthy partners (ha – I think we can all relate).

Sheeran alludes to this as he sings ”All my friends have settled and grown and then there’s me here standing alone”, verbalising a desperate cry for a lost friendship and new beginnings.

Sheeran’s sorrowful masterpiece concludes with ‘Moving’ a more optimistic take on relationships and life. The need to move on and change direction. The track highlights that moving on from something toxic and desolate is needed in order to grow. This a positive message for anyone struggling with heartbreak.

POST-SUBTRACT: THE FUTURE OF SHEERAN?

When listening to Subtract, it is clear that Sheeran’s music has become his source of sanctuary, whilst the creation of title tracks stood as a process of self-therapy for the singer. In some sense, the creation of Subtract has allowed Sheeran to ‘see the sunshine’, so to speak, and allowed his listeners an opportunity to feel the same.

Subtract marks the end of Sheeran’s mathematical series, so what can we expect next?

 

If you you are struggling with your mental health, speak to a GP or a healthcare professional. Alternatively, you can find a list of resources here.

 

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Featured image courtesy of Alexey Ruban on Unsplash. No changes were made to this image. Image license found here. 

Undergrad English student with an intense passion for storytelling, writing, and critical thinking.

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