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“ilomilo” references a 2010 puzzle game developed by Southend Interactive and Microsoft Game Studios. The game is based on two characters Ilo and Milo who would venture off into adventures in the village and must return home after quests. Each night the two characters go out, the puzzle becomes harder.
Billie Eilish explained the reference to the game and the idea behind the song;
The whole idea is the game, it’s just like, losing the person you love and then finding them again.
The song lyrics to “ilomilo” wind around the lament of Billie Eilish about the indefiniteness of her relationship with a guy. In the first verse itself, we hear Billie’s worrisome mind questioning about the sketchy behaviour of the guy. She takes it an opportunity to warn the guy that ‘stars’ may not be what they seem to be from a distance. ‘Stars’ may refer to other girls who look bright and shine well over the others. But they only shine on other’s spotlights.
In the chorus of the song, Billie draws a reference to gaming by gesturing that unless he is in her life, she might ‘lose a life’ as done in games. Using all your lives will mark the end of the game and in Billie’s case; end of their relationship.
Download “ilomilo” Song on iTunes and Amazon
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Throughout the song, Billie reminisces the impermanence of life. She even references her own song “bury a friend” in the second verse. Billie is worried about losing her partner; whom she relies on to win the game of love and life. Every time he doesn’t return home, takes a part out of Billie’s life.
Leave a comment on your thoughts of this song by Billie Eilish. A fan of Ilomilo video game? Let us know.
Check the full lyrics to “ilomilo” by Billie Eilish below.